EVALUATION OF FRUIT TREE MANAGEMENT PRACTICES IN HAOR HOMESTEADS OF BANGLADESH
BHUIYAN A. T. M. OBAIDULLAH
DEPARTMENT OF HORTICULTURE SHER-E-BANGLA AGRICULTURAL UNIVERSITY
DHAKA-1207
DECEMBER, 2013
EVALUATION OF FRUIT TREE MANAGEMENT PRACTICES IN HAOR HOMESTEADS OF BANGLADESH
BY
BHUIYAN A. T. M. OBAIDULLAH
Reg. No. 1205236
A Thesis
Submitted to the Department of Horticulture Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University, Dhaka
In partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree
of
MASTER OF SCIENCE (MS)
IN
HORTICULTURE
SEMESTER: JULY-DECEMBER, 2013
APPROVED BY: ___________________________ __________________ Prof. Dr. Md. Ismail Hossain Dr. M. A. Mannan SS
____________________________ Prof. Dr. A. F. M. Jamal Uddin
Examination Committee
Department of Horticulture Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University
Sher-e-Bangla Nagar, Dhaka Supervisor
Chief Instructor Agricultural Training Institute
Department of Agricultural Extension Co-Supervisor
DEDICATED TO
MY BELOVED PARENTS
DEDICATED TO
MY BELOVED PARENTS
DEPARTMENT OF HORTICULTURE
Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University Sher-e-Bangla Nagar, Dhaka-1207
Tel. 9144270-9 Ext.-309, e-mail: [email protected]
Memo No…………….. Date:……………..…
CERTIFICATE
This is to certify that the thesis entitled ‘Evaluation of Fruit Tree Management
Practices in Haor Homesteads of Bangladesh’ submitted to the Department of
Horticulture, Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University, Dhaka, in partial fulfillment
of the requirements for the degree of MASTER OF SCIENCE in
HORTICULTURE, embodies the result of a piece of bona fide research work
carried out by Bhuiyan A. T. M. Obaidullah, Registration No. 1205236 under
my supervision and guidance. No part of the thesis has been submitted for any
other degree or diploma.
I further certify that any help or source of information, received during the course
of this investigation has been duly acknowledged.
Dated: December, 2013 Dhaka, Bangladesh Prof. Dr. Md. Ismail Hossain
Department of Horticulture Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University
Dhaka-1207
Supervisor
i
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
All praises are due to Almightly and Kindfull trust on to “Almighty Allah” for His never-ending blessing.
The author likes to express his deepest sense of gratitude to his respected
supervisor Professor Dr. Md. Ismail Hossain, Department of Horticulture, Sher-E-Bangla Agricultural University (SAU), Dhaka for his scholastic
guidance, support, encouragement and valuable suggestions and constructive
criticism throughout the study period and gratuitous labor in conducting and
successfully completing the research work as well as preparation of the manuscript.
The author also expresses his gratefulness to his respected Co-Supervisor
Professor Dr. M. A. Mannan, Chief Instructor, Agricultural Training Institute, Department of Agricultural Extension, Homna, Comilla for his scholastic
guidance, helpful comments and constant inspiration, inestimatable help, valuable
suggestions throughout the research work and in preparation of the thesis.
The author expresses his gratitude towards the sincerity of the Chairman, Dr. A. F. M. Jamal Uddin Associate Professor, Department of Horticulture,
SAU, Dhaka for his valuable suggestions and cooperation during the study
period. The author also expresses his heartfelt thanks to all the teachers of the Department of Horticulture for their valuable suggestions, instructions, cordial
help and encouragement during the period of the study.
The author deems it at a great pleasure to express his profound thankfulness to his
respected parents, who entiled much hardship inspiring for prosecuting his studies, receiving proper education. The author expresses his sincere appreciation
to his brother, sisters, relatives, well wishers and friends for their inspiration,
help and encouragement throughout the study period.
Lastly the author announces his meaningful thanks to all the team members of
BAS-USDA-PALS for their cooperation, constant help and encouragement.
The Author
ii
EVALUATION OF FRUIT TREE MANAGEMENT PRACTICES IN HAOR HOMESTEADS OF BANGLADESH
BY
BHUIYAN A. T. M. OBAIDULLAH
ABSTRACT
A study was conducted in Haor area of Ajmiriganj upazila of Habigonj district.
There are five unions in Ajmiriganj upazila. The 45 homesteads were surveyed to
understand their knowledge regarding homestead fruit cultivation and also
identify the present fruit production system. A well structured interview schedule
was developed based on objectives of the study. The majority (42.22%) of the
fruit growers in low knowledge category, while only (20.00%) in high knowledge.
Considering the magnitude of different problems in homestead fruit cultivation in
Haor areas, the respondents fruit growers faced severe problem in terms of lack of
technical knowledge about materials and the second highest in high rate of interest
and the third in inadequate loan than demand. In consideration of fertilizer
application, for orange cultivation the highest (100%) fruit growers applied
fertilizers. In context of irrigation, the highest (84.44%) fruit growers applied
irrigation in papaya cultivation. For hormone application, the highest (55.56%)
fruit growers applied hormone for mango cultivation. For mulching, the highest
(64.44%) fruit growers used mulched materials for banana cultivation. For
pruning in homestead fruit cultivation, the highest (100%) fruit growers practiced
pruning in jujube. For thinning, the highest (40.00%) fruit growers practiced
thinning in papaya cultivation. For training, the highest (42.22%) fruit growers
practiced training in jujube plant. Level of education, annual income and size of
homestead fruit trees area showed significant positive relationship with knowledge
of homestead fruit management, whereas age showed significantly negative
relationship with knowledge. The findings revealed that the people of Haor areas
in Bangladesh have lower knowledge on management of homestead fruit
production and practices.
iii
TABLE OF CONTENTS
CHAPTER TITLE Page
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS i
ABSTRACT ii
LIST OF CONTENTS iii
LIST OF TABLES v
LIST OF PLATES vi
LIST OF FIGURES vi
LIST OF APPENDICES vi
I INTRODUCTION 01
II REVIEW OF LITERATURE 04
2.1 Concept, components, formation and measurement of knowledge 04
2.2 Relationship between respondents’ characteristics and knowledge 08
2.3 Conceptual Framework 15
2.4 Literature related to the concept of different management practices of homestead fruit trees
17
III METHODOLOGY 22
3.1 Locale of the study 22
3.2 Sample size 22
3.3 The research instrument 24
3.4 Measurement of variables 24
3.5 Measurement of independent variables 25
3.6 Knowledge on management of homestead fruit production and practices
27
3.7 Hypothesis of the study 27
3.8 Estimation of correlation 27
3.9 Data collection procedure 28
3.10 Data processing 28
3.11 Data analysis 29
iv
CHAPTER TITLE Page IV RESULTS AND DISCUSSION 30
4.1 Characteristics of the fruit growers 30
4.1.1 Age 33
4.1.2 Level of education 34
4.1.3 Family size 35
4.1.4 Annual income 35
4.1.5 Age of homestead 36
4.1.6 Size of homestead 37
4.1.7 Size of homestead fruit trees areas 37
4.2 Knowledge on management of homestead fruit cultivation and practice
38
4.3 Relationship of the selected characteristics of homestead fruit growers in Haor areas with their knowledge
40
4.4 Different aspects and magnitude of different problems in homestead fruit cultivation
42
4.4.1 Different aspects of homestead fruit cultivation 42
4.4.2 Different problems in homestead fruit cultivation 42
4.5 Management practices in homestead fruit trees 46
4.5.1 Status of different management practices for different fruit trees 46
4.5.2 Status of fertilizer management in different homestead fruit trees 48
4.5.3 Status of water management in different homestead fruit trees 50
4.5.4 Status of hormone management in different homestead fruit trees 52
4.5.5 Status of mulch management in different homestead fruit trees 54
4.5.6 Status of training and pruning in different homestead fruit trees 56
V SUMMARY AND CONCLUSION 58
REFERENCES 62
APPENDICES 75
v
LIST OF TABLES
Table Title Page 1. Descriptive statistics of homestead fruit growers in
Haor area of Bangladesh 31
2. Distribution of the respondents according to their selected characteristics
32
3. Distribution of the fruit growers according to their age 33
4. Distribution of the fruit growers according to their level of education
34
5. Distribution of the fruit growers according to their family size 35
6. Distribution of the fruit growers according to their annual income 36
7. Distribution of the fruit growers according to their age of homestead
36
8. Distribution of the fruit growers according to their size of homestead
37
9. Distribution of the fruit growers according to their size of homestead fruit trees areas
38
10. Distribution of the fruit growers according to their knowledge on management practices of homestead fruit cultivation
38
11. Correlation between different characteristics of the fruit growers, with their knowledge on management of homestead fruit production
41
12. Distribution of the fruit growers according to the different aspects of fruit cultivation
43
13. Comparison of magnitude of different problems in homestead fruit cultivation in Haor areas
44
14. Status of different management practices in homestead fruit trees in Haor areas
47
15. Status of fertilizer management in different homestead fruit trees in Haor areas
49
16. Status of water management in different homestead fruit trees in Haor areas
51
17. Status of hormone management in different homestead fruit trees in Haor areas
53
18. Status of mulching management in different homestead fruit trees in Haor areas
55
19. Status of training and pruning management in different homestead fruit trees in Haor areas
57
vi
LIST OF PLATES
Plate Title Page
1. Overview of the homestead in Haor areas 23
LIST OF FIGURES
Figure Title Page
1. Comparison of magnitude of different problems in homestead fruit cultivation in Haor areas
44
LIST OF APPENDICES
Appendix Title Page
I. A map of study area of Ajmiriganj upazila 75
II. A copy of interview schedule 76
1
CHAPTER I
INTRODUCTION
Homestead refers to home and adjoining land occupied by a family to cultivate
some crops for their own consumption and marketing. Generally, the purpose of
homestead is small-scale agricultural production, home upkeep, sanitation, health
and nutrition (Ninez, 1984). It is land occupied by the dwelling unit of the
household and the immediate area surrounding it, including courtyard, pond, road
space around homesteads, space used for cultivation of trees and vegetables and
unutilized space (Abdullah, 1986). There are 32.07 million homesteads in
Bangladesh and over 74% of the population lives in the rural areas.
Approximately 7% area (0.53 million hectare) of the total 8.4 million hectare of
cultivable land in Bangladesh is occupied by homesteads which is extremely
productive (BBS, 2011).
Homesteads play a vital role in providing timber, fuel wood, fodder, and fruits.
Record of 70% of timber, 90% of fuel wood, 48% sawn and veneer logs and
almost 90% of bamboo requirement is available from homegardens of Bangladesh
(Uddin et al., 2002). But state forest of Bangladesh covers 2.52 million hectare of
lands, representing 17% of the countries land area and supplying only 12% wood
(Poffenberger, 2000). It is difficult to meet the country’s huge demand for timber,
fuel, fruit and fodder from the state forests. Villages of Bangladesh have a long
heritage of growing fruit trees along with other perennial shrubs and herbs
(Rahman et al., 2009). The homegardens of Bangladesh is a source of livelihood
for many farmers and serve as safety net during the time of hardship and natural
disaster. Most of the homesteads of landlord houses contained improved cultivars
of different fruits and other aesthetic plants, which are very much important from
horticultural and breeding point of view. Homesteads represent a land use system
involving deliberate management of multipurpose trees and shrubs in limited
association with seasonal vegetables (Fernandes and Nair, 1986).
2
In Bangladesh, homestead gardens represent a well-established traditional land
use system where natural forest covers less than 10%; homestead gardens, which
are maintained by at least 20 million households, represent one possible strategy
for biodiversity conservation (Zashimuddin 2004; Kabir and Webb, 2008). The
conservation of cultivated plants in homestead gardens of Bangladesh not only
preserves a vital resource for humankind but plays an important role in household
food security, as it is a sustainable source of food, fruits and vegetables (Uddin
and Mukul, 2007). In Bangladesh context, the increase of homestead at present is
not able to keep pace with the growing population. Most of the homestead areas
are not utilized properly at present. So, a vast area remains unproductive even
through theses land can able to meet the nutrient requirements. Several studies
showed that species diversity in a homestead garden can range from less than five
(Abdoellah, et al., 2006) to more than 100 (Vogl and Vogl-Lukasser, 2003). In
Bangladesh, various studies explore the floristic composition in the homestead
gardens, agroforestry system, homestead plantation and traditional uses,
quantitative structure and silvicultural management; production and services
(Islam, 1998; Ahmad, 1997; Millat-E-Mustafa, 2002 and Motiur, et al., 2005).
Bangladesh abounds with a large variety of tropical and sub-tropical fruits
(Abdoellah, et al., 2006; Akhter et al., 2010). The term 'fruit' is more conveniently
used to refer to the part of the seed suitable for human consumption, eaten fresh,
either ripe or young (Uddin and Mukul, 2007). The most widely cultivated fruits
are Mango, Jackfruit, Black berry, Pineapple, Banana, Litchi, Lemon, Guava, Hog
plum, Custard apple, Wood apple, Elephant apple, Golden apple, Indian berry,
Papaya, Coconut, Tamarind, Melon, Watermelon, Cashew nut, Pomegranate,
Palmyra, Plum, Rose apple, Indian olive, and Indian jujube. There are many
minor edible fruits that are locally available in the wild and are also cultivated,
such as latkan, monkey jack, uriam, rattan, river ebony, garcinia, wild date palm,
etc. Different fruits grow in Bangladesh round the year because of favorable
climatic conditions. Homestead fruit production is quite prevalence in Bangladesh
(Alam and Masum, 2005; Motiur et al., 2006).
3
In Bangladesh, there is no specific management plan for the homestead fruit trees
which are being traditionally managed by the household owners (FAO, 2010).
The management of the traditional homestead garden has evolved as a response to
many factors such as cultural, economic and, environmental as well as personal
preferences (Motiur et al., 2006; Southern, 1994). Millat-E-Mustafa et al. (1996)
recorded eight major uses of the homestead forest plants: fruit/food, timber,
firewood, spice, fodder, medicine, fencing, and miscellaneous. The miscellaneous
uses include brooms, handicrafts, shade, ornamental, ceremonial, environmental,
and aesthetic. Again, the ecological merits of homestead garden are related to
conservation of soil, water, nutrients, and biodiversity (Masum, et al., 2008).
The natural forest of Bangladesh is shrinking at an alarming rate due to
unprecedented anthropogenic pressure, researchers from across the world have
demonstrated homestead gardens’ dynamic role in the conservation of
biodiversity and provision of necessary daily needs to rural people by turn for
urban people (Motiur, et al., 2005). Although Haor homestead is different from
the main land but it has enough space for fruit production and some other
household intervention. Considering the importance of Haor areas homestead fruit
production both from economic and nutritional point of view the study was
conducted on of fruit tree management practices in Haor homesteads of
Bangladesh with the following objectives:
Survey and identification of management practices on different fruit trees
of Haor homestead of Ajmirigonj upazila under Habiganj district;
Evaluation of homestead fruit production practices in Haor areas and
To expose the cause of poor production in the Haor homesteads.
4
CHAPTER II
REVIEW OF LITERTURE
This chapter deals with the review of past research works that related to this
investigation directly or indirectly. Review of literatures expediently to the major
objectives of this study is presented in this chapter. Despite frantic search, the
research found only a few studies are available all of them are indirectly related.
The researcher came across with some expert opinions about the concept of
knowledge and has tried his best to collect needful information through searching
relevant studies, journals, periodicals, bulletins, leaflets, internet etc. These
enhanced the researcher’s knowledge for better and clear understanding of the
present study.
2.1 Concept, components, formation and measurement of knowledge
Haque (1986) conducted a study on a quasi-experiment design, tested rice farming
knowledge of field extension agents employed in two provinces Leyte and
Sodium Leyte of the Philippines. There farming knowledge was measured before
the intervention (treatment) was initiated. Result showed that 75 percent
possessed low knowledge and 25 percent possessed high knowledge by the Leyte
agents. The percentage of the knowledge in that level was 70 and 30, respectively.
The t-statistics show that there were no statistical differences in rice farming
knowledge between the agents in two locations.
Hussain et al. (1988) in their study revealed that family member, specially wife,
husband and children participate in varying percentage in the pre-and post-harvest
activities of forests, fruit and vegetable production in the homestead. The
involvement of wife was the highest followed by husband and children in
seed/seedling collection, seed storage, water management and fruit processing
when husband was more involved than wife and children in plant propagation,
tree plantation, propagation, fertility management, pest management, weeding,
harvesting and selling the fruit and vegetables irrespective of farm category.
5
Rahman et al. (1988) conducted a study on health cover practices of poultry and
found that 26 percent of the farm women possessed low level of knowledge while
74 percent possessed medium level and none possessed high level of knowledge.
Vidya et al. (1991) in a case study at Naldung, Nepal reported that participation of
women in vegetable production was much higher than men. The women labour
constituted 73% of total labour employed in the vegetable garden. These activities
however were not as time bound as the activities in cereal production. Also year
round production of vegetables was not common in the area. The farmers also
participate in homestead fruit production.
Rosemary and Zahir (1991) reported that women do not traditionally become
tailor, but many RDRS group members are doing so successfully, albeit on a very
small scale potential women are selected and get orders from their villages prior
to training. They then receive training from a local tailor master. When they have
sufficient skill, they fulfill their orders during the training period and are in a
position to make a down payment on the lease purchase of their swing machine.
These women can then provide a useful service in their villages by making cloths
at a price that poor people can afford. They also reported that women with
experiences can run home based businesses and can participate in marketing for
selling out their product like handicrafts and bamboo made materials. They can
also setup small grocery shops or tea shop in local market if they are provided a
basic training in record keeping, micro enterprise management and market
bargaining etc. They should also be supplied with credit for building materials and
for purchase of stock.
Parveen (1995) in her study found that 58 percent of the farm women had
moderate knowledge while 35 percent had high and 7 percent had poor knowledge
on the use of fertilizers, pesticides and irrigation water for the homestead
production of different species.
6
Khan (1996) conducted a research on the effectiveness of “A Farmer Primer on
Growing Rice” in knowledge change of the farmers in Shakhipur Thana and
found that 67 percent farmers had good knowledge at initial stage, where 21
percent had excellent knowledge and 12 percent had poor knowledge regarding
rice cultivation.
Nurzaman (2000) also in his study on knowledge, attitude and practice of FFS and
non-FFS farmers in respect of IPM found that 46.67 percent of the FFS farmers
had medium, 31.67 percent had high and 21.67 percent had low IPM knowledge
while among the non-FFS farmers, 98.33 percent had low and only 1.67 percent
had medium IPM knowledge. In the same study he found that 60 percent of the
FFS farmers had medium knowledge, 25 percent low and 15 percent had high
agricultural knowledge. The majority (55%) of the non-FFS farmers had low
agricultural knowledge and rest (45%) of the non-FFS farmers had medium
agricultural knowledge.
Hossain (2000) also in his study on farmers’ knowledge and perception of
Binadhan-6 in the Boro season found that highest proportion (65%) of the farmers
possessed medium knowledge, 21 percent low knowledge and lowest proportion
(14%) possessed high knowledge.
Hossain (2001) in his study found that 84 percent of the farmers had medium, 13
percent had high knowledge and the lowest proportion (3%) possessed low
knowledge on modern sugarcane cultivation practices.
Mannan (2001) conducted a study on knowledge about food and nutrition of the
farmers under PROSHIKA mung and found that highest proportion (75%)
respondents fell in the medium knowledge level, while 9 percent of the
respondents fell in the low knowledge level and 16 percent in the high knowledge
category.
Saha (2001) made an attempt on farmers knowledge in improved practices of
pineapple cultivation and found that the majority (62%) of the farmers possessed
7
good knowledge, 33 percent poor knowledge and only 5 percent possessed
excellent knowledge.
Sarker (2002) studied on farmers’ knowledge of and attitude towards BRRI Dhan
29 variety of rice and show that 60 percent of the farmers held medium
knowledge 33 percent high knowledge and 7 percent possessed low knowledge.
Sarker (2002) studied on farmers’ knowledge on improved banana cultivation
practices and showed that majority of the banana growers (83.7%) had moderate,
6.1 percent had poor and the rest 10.2 percent had good knowledge.
Khan (2005) studied on farmers’ knowledge of maize cultivation and found that
majority (68%) of the farmers had relatively low level of knowledge and 32
percent of the farmers had possessed relatively high level of knowledge.
Hossain (2010) found the highest 64.76 percent farmers belongs to the group of
medium level involvement group followed by 31.43 percent in low level
involvement group and 3.81 percent in high involvement group in homestead
Fruit production activities.
Mamun (2011) studied the homestead farming knowledge of Garo women
farmers from a study and reported that about half (49.52%) of the respondents fell
in low knowledge category followed by very low knowledge (27.62%) and
medium knowledge (22.86%) category in homestead farming knowledge.
8
2.2 Relationship between respondents’ characteristics and knowledge
2.2.1 Age and knowledge
Chandargi (1980) found that there was significant association between age and
knowledge gain as a result of training.
Hansara and Chopra (1986) found that there was a significant negative correlation
between gain in knowledge about cattle disease and age of the respondents i.e.,
the more was the age of the respondents, less was their gain in knowledge.
Kashem (1987) in his study on the small farmers’ constraints to the adoption
modern rice technology found that age of the farmers had significant negative
correlation with their agricultural knowledge.
The report of Rayspreddy and Jayarmaiah (1989) revealed that age of the VEOs
showed negative relationship with their knowledge level on rice production
technologies.
Islam (1993) in his study concluded that age of the Block Supervisors (BSs) had
no significant relationship with their knowledge on modern agricultural
technology.
Khan (1996) conducted a research on the effectiveness of “A Farmers primer on
Growing Rice” in knowledge change of the farmers in Shakhipur thana and found
that age of the respondent had no role with the three dependent variables namely
initial rice knowledge, final rice knowledge and knowledge gain in the socio-
economic condition of Shakhipur thana.
Nandiwal et al. (1999) conducted in a study on knowledge and adoption level of
the farmers about production technology at Kheda district of Gujarat state, India.
They found that age of the farmers had non significant correlation with their
knowledge about production technology.
9
Hossain (2000) in his study found that age of the farmers had no significant
relationship with their knowledge on cultivation practices or different modern
production technology.
Saha (2001) made an attempt on farmers’ knowledge on improved practices of
pineapple cultivation and found that the age of the farmers had no significant
relationship with their knowledge on improved practices of pineapple cultivation.
Rahman (2001) conducted a study to determine the knowledge, attitude and
adoption of the farmers regarding Alok 6201 hybrid rice. He found that age of the
farmers was not related to farmers’ knowledge on Alok 6201 hybrid rice.
Sarker (2002) found in his study that age of the farmers had a significant and
negative relationship with their knowledge on improved banana cultivation.
Akhter (2003) found in his study that the age of the farmers had no significant
relationship with their knowledge on agricultural activities. Saha (2003) found no
relationship between poultry farmers’ age and their knowledge on poultry
production.
Rahman (2004) found in his study that age of the farmers had no significant
relationship with their knowledge on boro rice cultivation.
Khan (2005) found in his study that age of the farmers was not related to their
knowledge of maize cultivation practices.
Hossain (2010) conducted in a study on involvement of farmers in homestead fruit
production activities at Pangsha Upazila under Rajbari district and found that age
of the farmers’ had non significant correlation with involvement in homestead
fruit production activities.
Mamun (2011) studied the homestead farming knowledge of Garo women
farmers and reported that age had significant negative correlation with homestead
farming knowledge.
10
2.2.2 Level of education and knowledge
Hansara and Chopra (1986) found that education and knowledge gain in cattle
disease through telecasts have highly significantly positive relationship.
Kashem (1987) in his study revealed that there was no significant relationship
between education of the farmers and their agricultural knowledge.
Kumari (1988) from a study on communication effectiveness of selected mass
media concluded that there was a significant association between education of the
respondents (women) and attitude towards the message and knowledge level.
Rathore and Shaktawat (1990) reported in their study that farmers’ education was
significantly related with their knowledge.
Islam (1993) found that the general education of the BSs had no significant
relationship with their knowledge on modern agricultural technologies. However,
the trend of relationship between general education and knowledge on modern
agricultural technologies was negative.
Khan (1996) in his study found the formal education was related to both their
initial rice knowledge (r=0.42) and their final rice knowledge (r=0.33) but also
found that concerned variable was not related to their knowledge gain (r=0.02).
Hazarika et al. (1999) conducted a study on relative influence of socio-personal
psychological and communicational traits of the farmers on gain in knowledge in
plain and hilly areas of Kamrup district of Assam and found that both in hilly and
plain areas education of the respondents positively and significantly related to
their knowledge gain.
Hossain (2000) found that the education of the respondents had significant
positive relationship with their knowledge on Binadhan-6.
Saha (2001) found that the education of the farmers had a positive significant
relationship with their knowledge on improved practices of pineapple cultivation.
11
Saha (2003) found, among the six independent variables, only education was
positively and significant related at 0.01 level of probability with poultry farming
knowledge.
Sarker (2002) found that education level of the farmers had significant and
positive relationship with their knowledge on improved banana cultivation.
Rahman (2004) revealed that level of education of the farmers had a significant
and positive relationship with their knowledge on boro rice cultivation.
Hossain (2010) conducted in an investigation on involvement of farmers in
homestead fruit production activities at Pangsha Upazila under Rajbari district and
found that level of education had non significant correlation with involvement in
homestead fruit production activities.
Mamun (2011) studied the homestead farming knowledge of Garo women
farmers and reported that education level had significant positive correlation with
homestead farming knowledge.
2.2.3 Family size
Parveen (1993) found that there was a significant positive relationship between
family size of the farm women and their awareness and knowledge on
environmental degradation.
Akanda (1994) mentioned that family size of the rural women had significant
positive relationship with their participation in the cultivation of fruit trees. The
relationship with homestead vegetable cultivation and non-farm household
activities was positive but not significant.
Rao (1994) reported that rural women’s participation in agriculture was positive
correlated with the size of their family.
12
Chowdhury (2000) in his study found that family size of the rural women had no
significant relationship with their opinion for participation in development
activities.
Alam (2001) in his study observed that family size had non-significant
relationship with their participation in agriculture, fisheries and poultry programs
of BAUEC.
Aurangozeb (2002) found that family size of the rural women had non-significant
relationship with their adoption of integrated homestead farming technologies.
Islam (2002) in his study found that family size of the women had non significant
relationship with their involvement in income generating activities.
Hossain (2010) conducted an investigation on involvement of farmers in
homestead fruit production activities at Pangsha Upazila under Rajbari district and
found that family size had non significant negative correlation with involvement
in homestead fruit production activities.
Mamun (2011) studied the homestead farming knowledge of Garo women
farmers from a study and reported that family size had non significant positive
correlation with homestead farming knowledge.
2.2.4 Annual income and knowledge
Ali (1984) also found that income of the contact and non-contact farmers’ differed
significant positive contribution to both of their agricultural knowledge and
adoption of innovations.
Nurzaman (2000) found that incomes of the rural women farmers had no
relationship with their knowledge of the farmers.
Islam (2002) in his study found that family income of the women had significant
positive relationship with their involvement in income generating activities and
decision making in household and health care.
13
Hossain (2003) found that income of the rural women farmers had negative
relationship with their knowledge of modern Boro rice cultivation.
Hossain (2010) conducted a study on involvement of farmers in homestead fruit
production activities at Pangsha Upazila under Rajbari district and found that
annual family income had non significant correlation with involvement in
homestead fruit production activities.
Mamun (2011) studied the homestead farming knowledge of Garo women
farmers from a study and reported that annual income had significant positive
correlation with homestead farming knowledge.
2.2.5 Age of homestead and knowledge
Manjunatha (1980) revealed that the more c exposure to mass media farmers had
higher knowledge level and adoption behavior compared to lower exposure to
mass media.
Rayapareddy and Jayaramaiah (1989) working on village extension officers
(VEOs) knowledge of rice production technology and found that exposure to mass
media had significant positive relationship with the knowledge level of VEOs.
Karim and Hossain (1995) observed that the farmers differed significantly in their
knowledge in sugarcane cultivation based on their exposure to mass media.
Hossain (2001) found that the exposure to mass media of the respondents had
positive relationship with their knowledge of crop cultivation.
Mannan (2001) in his study found that the exposure to mass media of the farmers
had a positive significant relationship with their knowledge on food and nutrition.
2.2.6 Farm size and knowledge
Sharma and Sonoria (1983) found that both the contact and non-contact farmers
were different in their size of operational holding. However, they found no
14
significant differences in knowledge of both the contact and non-contact farmers
with the size of their operational holdings.
Ali (1984) found that farm size of the contact and non-contact farmers had
significant positive contribution to their agricultural knowledge.
Khan (1996) in his study indicated that farm size of the respondent was not
significantly related to their initial rice knowledge, final rice knowledge and
knowledge gain.
Hossain (2000) found that farm size of the farmers had no relationship with their
knowledge of Binadhan-6.
Hossain (2001) in his study found that farm size of the farmers was related to
farmers’ knowledge of crop cultivation.
Sarker (2002) also found that there was a positive relationship between farm size
of the farmers and their knowledge of BRI Dhan29.
Akter (2003) found in his study that farm size of the farmers had a significant and
positive relationship with their knowledge on agricultural activities.
Rahman (2004) reported that farm size of the farmers had a significant and
positive relationship with their knowledge on boro rice cultivation practices.
Khan (2005) found in his study that farm size of the respondent had no
relationship with their knowledge of maize cultivation.
Hossain (2010) conducted a study at Pangsha Upazila under Rajbari district and
found that farm size had non significant negative correlation with involvement in
homestead fruit production activities.
Mamun (2011) studied the homestead farming knowledge of Garo women
farmers and reported that homestead farm size had significant positive correlation
with homestead farming knowledge.
15
2.3 Conceptual Framework
In scientific research, selection and measurement of variables constitute an
important task. The hypothesis of a research while constructed properly consist at
least two important elements i.e.: a dependent variable and an independent
variable. A dependent variable is that factor which appears, disappears or varies as
the researcher introduces, removes or varies the independent variables
(Townsend, 1953). An independent variable is that factor which is manipulated by
the researcher in his attempt to ascertain its relationship to an observed
phenomenon. Variables together are the causes and the phenomenon is effect and
thus, there is cause effect relationship everywhere in the universe for a dependent
variable and an independent variable.
The conceptual framework of Rosenberg and Hovland (1960) was kept in mind
while making structural arrangements for the dependent and independent
variables. This study is concerned with the knowledge on management of
homestead fruit production and practices which includes fertilizer, irrigation,
hormone, mulching, pruning, thinning and Training. Thus, the knowledge on
management of homestead fruit production and practices was the dependent
variable and 7 selected characteristics of the fruit growers’ households were
considered as the independent variables. Knowledge on management of
homestead fruit production and practices of an individual may be affected through
interacting forces of many independent variables. It is not possible to deal with all
independent variables in a single study. It was therefore, necessary to limit the
independent variables, which include age, level of education, family size, annual
income, age of homestead, size of homestead and size of homestead fruit trees
area for this study.
Considering the above mentioned discussion, a conceptual framework has been
developed for this study, which is diagrammatically presented in the following
Figure 2.1.
16
Figure 2.1 The conceptual framework of the study
Independent variables
Age
Level of education
Family size
Annual income
Age of homestead
Size of homestead
Size of homestead fruit trees area
Dependent variable
Knowledge on management of homestead fruit production and practices
- Fertilizer
- Irrigation
- Hormone
- Mulching
- Pruning
- Thinning
- Training
17
2.4 Literature related to the concept of different management practices of homestead fruit trees
2.4.1 Fertilizer Poor cropping is considered to be a serious and major problem that faces by fruit
growers. This problem is attributed mainly to poor fruit retention and/or extensive
dropping of flowers and fruits. Unfavourable environmental conditions,
malnutrition, application of higher amounts of mineral N and undesirable
physiological conditions around the trees are considered important reasons for
such problem (Miller et al., 1990). Therefore, it is necessary for avoiding the
excessive use of nutrients partially by using some bio-stimulants namely seaweed
extract, yeast and vitamins (Tung et al., 2003).
Plants contain more than 90 elements, but only 16 elements are recognized as
essential. These elements are carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen, phosphorus,
potassium, calcium, magnesium, sulphur, iron, manganese, zinc, copper,
molybdenum, boron and chlorine. Besides these, another four elements viz.
silicon, sodium, cobalt and vanadium might be beneficial for a group of plants.
Except carbon, hydrogen and oxygen, all the 13 elements are taken up by plants
from soils and they are called mineral nutrients. Plants obtain carbon, hydrogen
and oxygen from air and water. The nutrients can be divided into two groups on
the basis of the quantity required by the plants: macronutrients and micronutrients.
Macronutrients are required relatively in larger quantities (usually above 0.1 % on
dry weight basis) while micronutrients are required in smaller quantities (usually
below 100 ppm). Carbon, H and O constitute 90-95% of plant dry matter weight.
Nitrogen, P and K are called primary nutrients because of their large requirement
and Ca, Mg & S are called secondary nutrients (FRG, 2005).
2.4.2 Irrigation Irrigation is a vital management practice in fruit production regions of the world,
particularly in arid and semi-arid climates. Better understanding and utilization of
tree physiological parameters is needed for management of irrigation water in
fruit crops and this will ultimately lead to achieving optimum yield and fruit
18
quality while conserving water resources (Al-Yahyai, 2012). Despite the
variations in the available water resources among fruit producing countries, the
question of frequency of irrigation and amount of water applied to fruit crops is a
common concern. Insufficient water supply may result in reduced tree growth,
yield and fruit quality due to water stress. Excessive irrigation, on the other hand,
may increase nutrient leaching, water logging problems, incidence of pests and
diseases, and the associated cost of frequent operation and maintenance of the
irrigation system. In addition, unmanaged irrigation may lead to adverse
environmental effects such as agrochemical leaching into groundwater aquifers,
reduced water reservoir, and water and soil salinity. Optimizing water applications
by scheduling irrigation to fruit orchards may increase water conservation, reduce
production costs, and increase tree growth and yield. Irrigation scheduling is
especially important in horticultural crops because net returns are normally higher
than those of other crops (Fereres, 1997).
According to Hillel (1998), the main issue with irrigation management is to
determine the frequency, quantity, and timing of irrigation to optimize crop
growth and productivity. However, irrigation scheduling and management of fruit
crops where rain falls in sufficient quantities in temperate, tropical and subtropical
regions is not well established. For example, irrigation was not a common practice
in fruit orchards in the humid-temperate regions such as New York, USA.
However, in recent decades, irrigation has become more common since it was
proven to increase growth and promote early production of high-density apple
orchards (Robinson and Stiles, 1995). Availability of weather data allows the use
of evapotranspiration (ET) predictions as a basis for irrigation scheduling
(Hutmacher, et al., 1994). Similar irrigation scheduling approaches were reported
by Ebel et al. (1995). Irrigation based on climatic data, is the method commonly
used to schedule irrigation of apple orchards in North-Eastern United States.
South Florida is the main region in the continental United States where
subtropical and tropical fruit crops are grown. In this region, trees are commonly
irrigated at rates and frequencies based mainly on grower’s experience and
19
observations of crop growth and yield rather than on quantitative scientific
information (Schaffer, 1998; Al-Yahyai, et al., 2005). According to a survey by
Munoz-Carpena et al., 2003, 64.3% of fruit growers irrigate trees based on rainfall
frequency and quantity. Problems concerning variability in irrigation duration and
frequency were rated high among the fruit growers (Li et al., 2000), which
highlight the need for a better understanding of irrigation requirements of these
crops.
Measurement of soil water content and soil matric potential provide an index of
the rate at which water is taken up by the plant or lost from the root zone. Soil
water content and potential is therefore most useful in con-junction with
information about the soil-plant-atmosphere system (Campbell and Campbell,
1982). Water extraction from the soil is de-pendent on plant properties that
determine the plant water potential (Ψ) at which a particular plant species can
continue to grow and extract water from the soil (Jones, 1990).
Although climate and soil-based methods provide a means for estimating
irrigation amount and timing, they do not take into account the variability between
fruit tree species and cultivars, growth stage, or the response of trees to soil
moisture deficit. The water refill point, which is the lowest possible soil water
content with no decrease in yield or fruit quality, varies among different tree
varieties, rootstocks, soils and seasons (Jones, 2004). Several physiological
variables are used as indicators of tree water status. Among the most frequently
used is tree water potential (Al-Yahyai, et al., 2005).
It is often beneficial to use both soil and plant factors for irrigation scheduling. An
integrated approach utilizing soil and plant factors suggested by Buss (1989)
included soil surveying to determine soil properties and available soil moisture
content and crop factors that included crop type, canopy size, rooting width and
depth, and crop density. Irrigation scheduling was then planned from a
combination of available water data, crop water extraction rates, and the irrigation
system layout. Physiological processes in fruit trees such as water potential and
20
gas exchange are sensitive to changes in soil water content (Naor and Cohen,
2003; Al-Yahyai et al., 2005). These physiological variables, growth, and fruit
production should be correlated with soil water content prior to determining the
appropriate amount of water to apply to an orchard. Little is known about the
response of temperate fruit crop, such as apple, and tropical fruit crop, like star-
fruit, to changes in soil water content under field conditions in humid-temperate
and subtropical climates. This paper discusses the relationship between soil water
content and water potential of apple and star-fruit trees grown in irrigated
orchards using climate-based (ET) and soil-based (capacitance probes) irrigation
scheduling methods.
2.4.3 Hormone
Hormone or plant growth regulators (PGR's) are organic compounds, which in
small amounts, somehow modify a given physiological plant process. It plays an
essential role in many aspects of plant growth and development, stem elongation
and flower development (Chaudhary et al., 2006; Ouzounidou et al., 2008). Plant
growth regulators can be used to modify growth and development in various
ways. Some growth regulators affect primarily on vegetative growth; others
influence the fruit; still others may induce modifications in vegetative and fruiting
parts (Tanimoto, 1987; Leclerc et al., 2006). The responses to a particular growth
regulator depend upon factors such as the plant, the chemical, and the
environment. Fruit per plant, fruit size and weight per fruits was the yield
components which may vary on the application of different PGR’s.
2.4.4 Mulching Mulches prevent weeds from germinating, reduce evaporative loss from soil
surfaces, add organic matter to soils thereby increasing their mineral content and
increase soil-borne disease suppression. The benefit most desired from mulch
applications is for more growth or better growth of trees. Increased growth of
trees has been associated with organic mulches in several studies (Downer and
Faber, 2005; Greenly and Rakow, 1995; Foshee et al., 1996). Mulch effects on
growth depend on the age of the tree, whether newly planted or an established
21
specimen, tree species and site factors such as water applications, soil types and
their mineral nutrient content as well as the presence or absence of pathogenic
fungi in soil.
Mulching with organic materials derived from trees increases the mineral content
of underlying soils, and many positively charged nutrients contained in plants
(including toxic ions) tend to accumulate in fine textured soils under organic
mulches (Downer, 1998).
2.4.5 Training and Pruning
Historically, fruit tree form and structure have been maintained by pruning. Tree
training, however, is a much more efficient and desirable way to develop form
and structure. Pruning is the removal of a portion of a tree and is used to correct or
maintain tree structure.
Training is a practice that allows tree growth to be directed into a desired shape
and form. Training young fruit trees is essential for proper tree development. It is
more efficient to direct tree growth with training than to correct it with pruning.
Pruning is most often accomplished during the winter, commonly referred to as
dormant pruning. Training includes summer training and summer pruning as well
as dormant pruning. The goal of tree training is to direct tree growth and to
minimize pruning and removing a portion of the tree, although dormant pruning is
always going to be needed (Michael, 2004).
The best ways for homeowners to control the height of a fruit tree are to plant a
dwarfing rootstock, prune well, or use a trellis system. Keeping the tree’s height
low allows for easier harvesting and pest management. A post-and-wire trellis
system is a popular way to keep fruit trees at a manageable height. Untrained fruit
trees can become infestation sites for serious insect and disease pests. Untrained
trees can make it difficult for commercial growers in the region to control key
pests (Olsen, 2011).
22
CHAPTER III
METHODOLOGY
Methodology would be enabling the researcher to collect valid information. It is
impossible to conduct research work smoothly without proper methodology and it
is very difficult to address the objectives with a scientific manner. It requires a
very careful consideration on the part of the researcher to collect valid and reliable
data and to analyze the same for meaningful conclusion. The study was conducted
through 2 step survey. A sequential description of the methodologies followed in
conducting this research work has been presented in this chapter.
3.1 Locale of the study
The study was conducted in Ajmiriganj upazila under Habigonj district and it was
a Haor area and the overview of Haor homestead presented in Plate 1. There are
05 unions in Ajmiriganj upazila, viz. Ajmiriganj, Kakailseo, Jalsuka, Badalpur,
and Shibpasha. BAS-USDA-PALS project has identified 45 homesteads in 5
unions of this upazila which family have Mango, Hog plum, Papaya, Banana,
Orange, Lemon, Jujube, Coconut, Guava, Star fruit, Pummelo, Sapota and Wax
apple fruit trees in their homestead areas. But most of them are unaware about the
benefits of fruit production (both cash and nutrient value of fruits). So, to bring
the area in the light of great concern it was selected as the locale of the study. A
map of Ajmiriganj upazila that is the study area presented in Appendix I.
3.2 Sample size
Homestead fruit growers of Ajmiriganj upazila under Habigonj district constituted
the population of the study. Through a survey under the project BAS-USDA-
PALS an update list of 45 family were made who have the fruit trees of Mango,
Hog plum, Papaya, Banana, Orange, Lemon, Jujube, Coconut, Guava, Star fruit,
Pummelo, Sapota and Wax apple in their homestead areas. Thus, 45 homestead
fruit growers constituted the sample of the study. The 45 homesteads were
surveyed to understand their knowledge regarding homestead fruit cultivation and
also identify the present fruit production system of them.
23
Plate 1. Overview of the homestead in Haor areas
24
3.3 The research instrument
A well structured interview schedule was developed based on objectives of the
study. Firstly, for collecting information related to the characteristics of
homestead fruit growers and knowledge regarding homestead fruits cultivation
were used that contained direct and simple questions in open form and close form
keeping in view the dependent and independent variables. Secondly, specific
management practices of the specific fruit trees were identified through another
simple structured interview schedule.
The questionnaire was pre-tested with 5 homestead fruit growers to find out actual
situation before making final draft. Necessary corrections, additions, alternations,
rearrangements and adjustments were made in the interview schedule based on
pretest experience. The questionnaire was then multiplied by printing in its final
form. A copy of the interview schedule is presented into Appendix II.
3.4 Measurement of variables
The variable is a characteristic, which can assume varying, or different values in
successive individual cases. A research work usually contains at least two
important variables viz. independent and dependent variables. An independent
variable is that factor which is manipulated by the researcher in his attempt to
ascertain its relationship to an observed phenomenon. A dependent variable is that
factor which appears, disappears or varies as the researcher introduces, removes
or varies the independent variable (Townsend, 1953). In the scientific research,
the selection and measurement of variable constitute a significant task. Following
this conception, the literature reviewed to widen this understanding about the
natures and scopes of the variables relevant to this research. At last he had
selected 7 independent variables and one dependent variable. The independent
variables were: age, level of education, family size, annual income, age of
homestead, size of homestead and size of homestead fruit trees area. The
dependent variable of this study was the knowledge on management of homestead
fruit production and practices.
25
3.5 Measurement of independent variables
The 7 characteristics of the homestead fruit growers in Haor areas mentioned
above constitute the independent variables of this study. The following procedures
were followed for measuring the independent variables.
3.5.1 Age
Age of respondent homestead fruit growers was measured by the period of time
from their birth to interview and it was measured in terms of complete years on
the basis of their response. A score of one (1) was assigned for each year age.
3.5.2 Level of education
Level of education was measured in terms of class passed by respondent
homestead fruit growers. Their education was assessed in terms of year of
schooling, i.e. one (1) score was given for one year of schooling. For example, if
the fruit grower passed the final examination of class V, their education score was
taken as 5. If the fruit growers had education out side school and the level of
education was equivalent to that of class V of the school than his education score
was taken as 5. Each illiterate person was given a score of zero (0). The fruit
growers who did not know how to read or write but able to can sign only was
given a score of ‘0.5’.
3.5.3 Family size
The family size of a respondent fruit growers was measured in terms of actual
number of members in his/her family including himself/herself, spouse, children,
brothers, sisters, parents and other person who jointly live and ate together during
the period of interviewing.
3.5.4 Annual family income
The term annual income refers to the annual gross income of a respondent fruit
growers and the members of his/her family from different sources and expressed
in taka. In measuring this variable, total earning in taka of an individual fruit
26
growers was converted into score. A score of one (1) was given for every one
thousand (Tk. 1000) taka.
3.5.5 Age of homestead
Age of homestead of respondent fruit growers was measured by the period of time
from their household construction in this area to interview and it was measured in
terms of complete years on the basis of their response. A score of one (1) was
assigned for each year age of homestead.
3.5.6 Size of homestead
Homestead farm size of respondent fruit growers referred to the area of land on
which his/her family used for homestead and received full benefits for his/her
family. It was measured in hectares for each respondent fruit growers. The size of
homestead of fruit growers was computed in terms of hectares by using the
following formula:
Size of homestead, HS = A + B + C + D + E + F + G
Where,
A = Residential areas/House areas
B = Homestead premises
C = Pond area
D = Cow/livestock shade
E = Areas of homesteads garden
F = Trees plantation areas/forest
G = Others (if any)
The total size of homestead thus obtained was considered as the homestead size
score of the fruit growers in Haor areas.
3.5.7 Size of homestead fruit trees areas
Size of homestead fruit trees areas of respondent fruit growers referred to the area
of land on which his/her family used for homestead fruit trees cultivation and
received full benefits for his/her family. It was measured in hectares for each
respondent fruit growers.
27
3.6 Knowledge on management of homestead fruit production and practices
Knowledge on management of homestead fruit production and practices referred
to the knowledge gained by the respondent fruit growers in homestead fruit
cultivation. Fifty one questions on different aspect of homestead fruit
management were asked to the respondent fruit growers to ascertain their
knowledge score. The score was assigned as 2 for full correct answer and zero (0)
for incorrect or no answer for each question. Partial score 1 was assigned for
partial answers. Thus knowledge on management of homestead fruit production
and practices scores of the respondents fruit grower could range from ‘0’ to 70
where zero (0) indicated very no knowledge and 70 indicated very high
knowledge on homestead fruit cultivation in Haor areas of Bangladesh.
3.7 Hypothesis of the study
In the present study the following null hypotheses were formulated:
“There are no relationships between each of 7 selected characteristics of the
homestead fruit growers and their knowledge on management of homestead fruit
production and practices”.
3.8 Estimation of correlation
Simple correlation was estimated for different traits with the following formula
(Singh and Chaudhary, 1985):
∑x. ∑y ∑xy - N r = (∑x)2 (∑y)2
[{∑x2 - }{∑y2 - }]1/2 N N
Where,
∑ = Summation
x and y are the two variables
N = Number of observations
28
3.9 Data collection procedure
The researcher himself collected the data from the sample respondents fruit
grower through personal contact with the help a pre-tested interview schedule.
Whenever any respondent fruit growers faced difficulty in understanding
questions, more attention was taken to explain the same with a view to enabling
the respondents fruit grower to answer properly. No serious problem was faced by
the investigator during data collection but obtained cooperation from the
respondent fruit growers. Data collection was started in October, 2013 and
completed in November, 2013.
3.10 Data processing
Qualitative data were converted into quantitative data by means of suitable
scoring wherever necessary. After collection of data, data processing and analysis
was done the following the steps as mentioned below:
3.10.1 Compilation of data
After completion of field survey all the interview schedule were coded, compiled,
tabulated and analyzed according to the objectives of the study. In this process all
the responses in the interview schedule were given numerical coded values. The
responses to the question in the interview schedule were transferred to a master
sheet to facilitate tabulation. Tabulation was done on the basis of categories
developed for the investigation.
3.10.2 Categorization of respondent fruit growers
For describing the various independent and dependent variables the respondents
were classified into various categories based on the assigned score. In developing
categories the researcher was guided by the nature of data and general
consideration prevailing on the social system. The procedures have been
discussed while describing the variable in the sub-sequent sections of next
chapter.
29
3.11 Data analysis
Data collected from the respondent fruit growers were complied, coded, tabulated
and analyzed in accordance with the objectives of the study. Various statistical
measures such as frequency counts, percentage distribution, average, and standard
deviation were used in describing data. SPSS (version 11.5) computer program
were used for analyzing the data. The categories and tables were used in
describing data. The categories and tables were also used in presenting data for
better understanding. The used statistical measurement in describing the selected
dependent and independent variables were frequency and percent distribution,
range, mean and standard deviation.
For determining the association of the selected characteristics of the respondent
fruit growers with the knowledge in management of homestead fruit cultivation
and practices Pearson Product Moment Correlation was used. Five percent (0.05)
level of probability was used as the basis for rejecting any null hypothesis. If the
computed ‘r’ value was equal or large than the table value at 0.05 level of
probability with (n-2) degree of freedom, the null hypothesis was rejected and it
was concluded that there was a significant relationship between the variables
concerned. If the computed ‘r’ values were found to be smaller than the table
value at 0.05 level of probability, the concerned null hypothesis could not be
rejected and led to the conclusion that there was no significant relationship
between the concerned variables.
30
CHAPTER IV
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
In this chapter the findings of the study were presented in accordance with the
objectives of the study and possible interpretation of the recorded information also
presented. The chapter has five sections. The first section deals with the
characteristics of the homestead fruit growers in Haor homestead of Bangladesh.
The second section deals with the knowledge on management of homestead fruit
cultivation and practices. The third section deals with the relationship between
individual characteristics of the homestead fruit growers with their knowledge on
management of homestead fruit cultivation and practices. The 4th section deals
with different aspects and magnitude of different problems in homestead fruit
cultivation and the 5th sections deals the status of different management practices
of homestead fruit trees.
4.1 Characteristics of the fruit growers
There are different interrelated characteristics of the fruit growers that influence
their knowledge on the management practices for homestead fruit cultivation in
Haor homestead of Bangladesh. It was therefore, hypothesized that the
characteristics of the fruit growers under the study would have an effect on the
homestead farming knowledge of fruit growers. However, the most important
features of seven selected characteristics of the homestead fruit growers in Haor
homestead of Bangladesh such as age, level of education, family size, annual
income, age of homestead, size of homestead and size of homestead fruit trees
area. Character wise summary of descriptive statistics of homestead fruit
growers in Haor area of Bangladesh are presented in Table 1 and
Summary distribution of the respondents according to their selected
characteristics are presented in Table 2. Subsequently the details are presented
and discussed for specific characters of homestead fruit growers in Haor
area of Bangladesh.
31
Table 1. Descriptive statistics of homestead fruit growers in Haor area of Bangladesh
(N=45)
Characteristics Measuring unit
Observed range
Mean Standard deviation
Age Years 26-60 47.22 8.93
Level of education Schooling year
0.0-14 4.26 4.68
Family size Numbers 2.0-6.0 4.18 1.11
Annual income Amount 56-260 123.5 46.67
Age of homestead Years 8-40 26.40 9.84
Size of homestead area Hectare 0.08-0.56 0.248 0.134
Size of homestead fruit trees area
Hectare 0.03-0.38 0.115 0.08
Number of livestock in homestead
Number 3-21 10.24 4.11
Knowledge on management of homestead fruit cultivation
Score 10-64 28.36 15.98
32
Table 2. Distribution of the respondents according to their selected characteristics Characteristics Categories Respondents
Number Percentage Age (years) Young (up to 30 years)
Middle (31-50 years) Old (above 50 years)
3 22 20
6.67 48.89 44.44
Total 45 100 Education (Schooling years) Illiterate (0 to can sign only-0.05)
Primary (1-5) Secondary (6-10) Above secondary (above 10)
24 2
14 5
53.34 4.44
31.11 11.11
Total 45 100 Family size (Number) Small (up to 4)
Medium (5-6) Large (above 6)
26 17 2
57.78 37.78
4.44 Total 45 100
Annual income Low income group (up to 70,000) Medium income group (70,001-140,000) High income group (above 140,00)
4 28 13
8.89 62.22 28.89
Total 45 100 Age of homestead Low aged homestead (up to 15 years)
Medium aged homestead (16-30 years) High aged homestead (above 30 years)
10 16 19
22.22 35.56 42.22
Total 45 100 Size of homestead Small (up to 0.15 ha)
Medium (.0.16-0.30 ha) Large (above 0.30 hectare)
12 20 13
26.67 44.44 28.89
Total 45 100 Size of homestead fruit trees areas Small (up to 0.10 ha)
Medium (.0.11-0.20 ha) Large (above 0.20 hectare)
24 14 7
53.33 31.11 15.56
Total 45 100 Livestock in homestead Lowest number of livestock (up to 6)
Medium number of livestock (7-12) Highest number of livestock (above 12)
9 22 14
20.00 48.89 31.11
Total 45 100
33
4.1.1 Age
The score of age of the homestead fruit growers in Haor areas who have
involvement in homestead fruit production range from 26 to 60 with a mean and
standard deviation of 47.22 and 8.93, respectively. Considering the observed age
score of the farmers they were classified into three categories namely ‘young
(upto 30 years)’, ‘middle aged (31-50 years)’ and ‘old aged (above 50 years’
aged). The distribution and percentage of fruit growers homestead fruit growers
according to their age are presented in Table 3.
Table 3. Distribution of the fruit growers according to their age
Categories (Years) Fruit growers’ Mean Standard deviation Number Percent
Young aged (upto 30 years) 3 6.67
47.22 8.93 Middle aged (31-50 years) 22 48.89
Old aged (above 50 years) 20 44.44
Total 45 100
Table 3 indicates that the middle aged homestead fruit growers in Haor areas
comprise the major proportion (48.89%) followed by old aged category (44.44%)
and the young aged constitute the lowest (6.67%) proportion. Data also indicates
that a total 93.33% fruit growers belonged to the middle and old aged group. The
middle and young aged homestead fruit growers in Haor areas were generally
tended to involve in homestead fruit growing activities than the younger. Probably
middle and old aged fruit growers were more sincere regarding the planting of
different variety of fruit trees in their homestead areas. During data collection
only the fruit growers were selected who have the fruit trees of Mango, Hog plum,
Papaya, Banana, Orange, Lemon, Jujube, Coconut, Guava, Star fruit, Pummelo,
Sapota and Wax apple in their homestead areas. Probably, the young community
was more involvement in another income generating activities or specific fruits
cultivation. Mamun (2011) reported that age is an important factor regarding
knowledge because age had significant negative correlation with homestead
farming knowledge.
34
4.1.2 Level of education
The level of educational scores of the homestead fruit growers in Haor areas of
Bangladesh ranged from 0 to 14 with the mean and standard deviation of 4.26 and
4.68, respectively. Based on educational scores, fruit growers were classified into
four categories such as ‘illiterate’ (0 to ‘can sign only 0.5)’, ‘primary education’
(1 to 5), ‘secondary education’ (6 to 10) and above secondary (above 10). Table 4
indicates the distribution and percentage of the homestead fruit growers in Haor
areas according to their level of education.
Table 4. Distribution of the fruit growers according to their level of education
Categories (Schooling years) Fruit growers’ Mean Standard deviation Number Percent
Illiterate (0 to can sign only-0.05) 24 53.34
4.26 4.68
Primary (1-5) 2 4.44
Secondary (6-10) 14 31.11
Above secondary (above 10) 5 11.11
Total 45 100
According to the categories of fruit growers presented in Table 4 shows that under
‘illiterate’ category constitute the highest proportion (53.34%) compared to
31.11% ‘secondary level category and 11.11% above secondary level category.
On the other hand, the lowest (4.44%) constitute primary level category.
Education broadens the horizon of outlook of homestead fruit growers in Haor
areas and expands their capability to analyze any situation related to homestead
fruit cultivation. An educated Haor fruit grower is likely to be more responsive to
the modern facts, ideas, technology and information of homestead fruits
cultivation. To adjust with the same, illiterate group would be vulnerable to adopt
as well as involve with modern management practices of homestead fruit
cultivation. Saha (2001) reported that level of education is an important factor
because education of the farmers had a positive significant relationship with their
knowledge on improved practices of pineapple cultivation.
35
4.1.3 Family size
Family size score of the fruit growers homestead fruit growers in Haor areas
ranged from 2 to 6 with the mean and standard deviation of 4.18 and 1.11,
respectively. According to family size the fruit growers were classified into three
categories, viz. ‘small family’, ‘medium family’ and ‘large family’ and the
distribution of the fruit growers presented in Table 5.
Table 5. Distribution of the fruit growers according to their family size
Categories (No. of members) Fruit growers’ Mean Standard deviation Number Percent
Small (up to 4) 26 57.78
4.18 1.11 Medium (5-6) 17 37.78
Large (above 6) 2 4.44
Total 45 100
Data revealed that the small family constitute the highest proportion (57.78%)
followed by the medium family (37.78%). Only 4.44% fruit growers had large
family size. Such finding is quite normal as per the situation of Bangladesh. Table
5 also showed that average family size of the fruit growers was lower than that of
national average of 5.4.
4.1.4 Annual income
Annual family income score of the fruit growers homestead fruit growers in Haor
areas ranged from 56 to 260 thousands with a mean and standard deviation of
123.5 and 46.67, respectively. On the basis of their annual income, the homestead
fruit growers in Haor areas were classified into three categories, viz. low, medium
and high annual family income category. The distribution of the homestead fruit
growers in Haor areas according to the annual income categories has been
presented in Table 6.
36
Table 6. Distribution of the fruit growers according to their annual income
Categories (‘000 Taka) Fruit growers’ Mean Standard deviation Number Percent
Low income group (up to 70) 4 8.89
123.5 46.67 Medium income group (71-140) 28 62.22
High income group (above 140) 13 28.89
Total 45 100
Data presented in Table 6 revealed that the homestead fruit growers in Haor areas
having medium income constitute the highest proportion (62.22%) followed by
high annual income (28.89%) and the low income group constitute the lowest
annual income group (8.89%).
4.1.5 Age of homestead
The age of homestead areas in Haor areas ranged from 8 to 40 years with a mean
and standard deviation of 26.40 and 9.84, respectively. Based on age of
homestead scores, they were classified into three categories such as ‘low aged
homestead (up to 15 years), ‘medium aged homestead (16-30 years) and high
aged homestead (above 30 years). Table 7 represents the distribution of the
homestead fruit growers in Haor areas as per the age of homestead.
Table 7. Distribution of the fruit growers according to their age of homestead
Categories (Years) Fruit growers’ Mean Standard deviation Number Percent
Low aged homestead (up to 15 years) 10 22.22
26.40 9.84 Medium aged homestead (16-30 years) 16 35.56
High aged homestead (above 30 years) 19 42.22
Total 45 100
Data presented in Table 7 indicated that age of homestead of fruit growers under
high aged category constitutes the highest proportion (42.22%) compared to
35.56% of medium aged homestead and the lowest percentage 22.22% low aged
homestead. Rahman et al. (2009) reported that villages of Bangladesh have a long
heritage of growing fruit trees along with other perennial shrubs and herbs.
37
4.1.6 Size of homestead
The score of size of homestead of the fruit growers’ homestead fruit growers in
Haor areas ranged from 0.08 hectare to 0.56 hectare with a mean and standard
deviation of 0.248 and 0.134, respectively. Based on their size of homestead, the
fruit growers were classified into three categories. These categories were small
size (upto 0.15 ha), medium size (0.16- 0.30 ha) and large size (above 0.30 ha).
The distribution of the homestead fruit growers in Haor areas according to their
size of homestead has been presented in Table 8.
Table 8. Distribution of the fruit growers according to their size of homestead
Categories (ha) Fruit growers’ Mean Standard deviation Number Percent
Small size (up to 0.15 ha) 12 26.67
0.248 0.134 Medium size (.0.16-0.30 ha) 20 44.44
Large size(above 0.30 ha) 13 28.89
Total 45 100
Table 8 indicates that the medium size of homestead constitutes the highest
proportion 44.44% followed by 28.89% with large size homestead and the lowest
26.67% in small size homestead. The findings of the study reveal that majority of
the homestead fruit growers in Haor areas were medium sized in their homestead
area. Abdullah (1986) reported that homestead land occupied by the dwelling unit
of the household and the immediate area surrounding it, including courtyard,
pond, road space, space used for cultivation of trees and vegetables.
4.1.7 Size of homestead fruit trees areas
The score of size of homestead fruit trees areas of the fruit growers’ homestead
fruit growers in Haor areas ranged from 0.03 hectare to 0.38 hectare with a mean
and standard deviation of 0.115 and 0.08, respectively. Based on their size of
homestead fruit trees areas, the fruit growers were classified into three categories.
These categories were small size (upto 0.10 ha), medium size (0.11- 0.20 ha) and
large size (above 0.20 ha). Table 9 represents the distribution of the homestead
fruit growers in Haor areas according to their size of homestead fruit trees areas.
38
Table 9. Distribution of the fruit growers according to their size of homestead fruit trees areas
Categories (ha) Fruit growers’ Mean Standard deviation Number Percent
Small size (up to 0.10 ha) 24 53.33
0.115 0.08 Medium size (.0.11-0.20 ha) 14 31.11
Large size (above 0.20 ha) 7 15.56
Total 45 100
Data represented in Table 9 revealed that the small size of homestead fruit trees
areas constitutes the highest proportion 53.33% followed medium sized
homestead fruit trees areas (31.11%) and the lowest 15.56% in large size
homestead fruit trees areas. The findings of the study reveal that majority fruit
growers were small to medium sized in their homestead fruit trees areas.
4.2 Knowledge on management of homestead fruit cultivation and practice
Knowledge on management of homestead fruit cultivation and practices of fruit
growers homestead fruit growers in Haor areas could range from 10 to 64 against
the possible range of 0-70 with the mean and standard deviation of 28.36 and
15.98, respectively. On the basis of Knowledge on management of homestead
fruit cultivation and practices scores, the fruit growers were classified into three
categories namely, ‘low knowledge’, ‘medium knowledge’ and ‘high knowledge’.
The distribution of the fruit growers in Haor areas according to their knowledge
on management of homestead fruit cultivation and practices is given in Table 10.
Table 10. Distribution of the fruit growers according to their knowledge on management practices of homestead fruit cultivation
Categories (Score) Fruit growers Mean Standard deviation Number Percent
Low Knowledge (up to 20) 19 42.22
28.36 15.98 Medium Knowledge (21-40) 17 37.78
High Knowledge (above 40) 9 20.00 Total 45 100.00
39
Data of Table 10 reveal that majority (42.22%) of the fruit growers felt in low
knowledge category followed by 37.78% in medium knowledge category in
Knowledge on management of homestead fruit cultivation and practices and only
20.00% in high knowledge category. Knowledge is to be considered as vision of
an explanation in any aspect of the situation regarding homestead fruit production
activities. It is act or state of understanding, clear perception of fact or truth that
helps an individual to foresee the consequence he may have to face in future. It
makes individuals to become rational and conscious about related field. To
perform optimum fruit production, fruit growers should have adequate knowledge
on different aspects of the concern homestead fruit production technology. The
findings of the present study revealed that 80.00% of the homestead fruit growers
in Haor areas in the study area had low and medium knowledge on homestead
fruit production activities.
Most of the households in Haor areas involved in crop cultivation and fishery
activities they have clear idea on that issue. With the discussion of them it was
clear that they involved in crop cultivation and they perform seedling raising,
transplanting, weeding, irrigation activities and harvesting and post-harvesting
operation in crop cultivation. They have clear idea on high yielding varieties,
planting method of crop, seedling age, different insect and pests and many other
aspects of crop cultivation. In case of vegetable, they know the time of planting in
different vegetable with appropriate management procedure. They have clear idea
on varieties, sowing time, fertilizer and manure, insect and pests and also their
control method for vegetable cultivation
In fruit cultivation in homestead areas, they have an idea for placement of
different fruits in different area based on their light requirements and they knew it
from their past experiences. They have an idea on the propagating materials of
different fruits and physical and cultural management for different fruit cultivation
activities in their homestead areas.
40
4.3 Relationship of the selected characteristics of homestead fruit growers in Haor areas with their knowledge
Pearson Product Moment Correlation Co-efficient was computed in order to find
out the extent of relationship between the selected characteristics of homestead
fruit growers and their knowledge on management of homestead fruit cultivation
and practices. To reject or accept the null hypothesis at 0.05 and 0.01 level of
probability was used. Results of correlation have been shown in Table 11 as
correlation matrix.
Relationship between age, level of education, family size, annual income, age of
homestead, size of homestead, size of homestead fruit trees area and number of
livestock in homestead and knowledge on management of homestead fruit
cultivation and practices of the growers in Haor areas was determined by Pearson
product moment correlation coefficient.
Table 11 revealed that level of education, annual income and size of homestead
fruit trees area showed significant positive relationship with knowledge on
management of homestead fruit cultivation and practices. This represent that level
of education, annual income and size of homestead fruit trees area of the fruit
growers was an important factor regarding knowledge on management of
homestead fruit cultivation and practices. On the other hand, age showed
significant negative relationship with knowledge of homestead fruit management
of the growers in Haor areas which indicate that the old aged farmers had less
knowledge on management of homestead fruit cultivation and practices in
consideration of modern practices. Hossain (2000) found that the education of the
respondents had significant positive relationship with their knowledge
Family size, size of homestead and number of livestock in homestead showed non
significant positive relationship with knowledge of homestead fruit management
of the growers in Haor areas. Mamun (2011) reported that family size had non
significant positive correlation with homestead farming knowledge.
41
Table 11. Correlation between different characteristics of the fruit growers, with their knowledge on management of homestead fruit production
Characteristics Level of education
Family size
Annual income
Age of homestead
Size of homestead
Size of homestead fruit trees
Knowledge on management of homestead fruit
production
Age -0.455** -0.018 -0.263 0.172 0.101 0.010 -0.411**
Level of education 0.043 0.574** -0.444** -0.003 0.221 0.844**
Family size 0.142 0.184 -0.054 -0.076 0.040
Annual income -0.131 0.042 0.057 0.436**
Age of homestead -0.005 -0.198 -0.417**
Size of homestead 0.852** 0.031
Size of homestead fruit trees 0.307*
** Correlation is significant at the 0.01 level * Correlation is significant at the 0.05 level
42
4.4 Different aspects and magnitude of different problems in homestead fruit cultivation
4.4.1 Different aspects of homestead fruit cultivation
Different aspects of fruit cultivation were identified in Haor areas as per the fruit
growers of the fruit growers; the reason for fruit cultivation, procedure of fruit
variety selection in homestead garden, procedure of fruit tree plantation and their
management, management of fruit trees, affected of fruit trees by insects and
diseases and application of pesticides. In case of reasons for fruit cultivation
majority (60.00%) responded that the cultivate fruit for eating. For procedure of
fruit variety selection in homestead garden the majority (51.11%) use own
selection procedure. In relation to the procedure of fruit tree plantation majority
(40.00%) use their own decision and opinion. In case of management of fruit
trees, majority (48.89%) replied that they practices management procedure
sometimes. The most of the fruit growers reported that there were no serious
attacked of insects (73.33%) and diseases (64.44%) and majority (75.56%) did not
applied any pesticides for controlling insects and diseases (Table 12). In
Bangladesh, various studies explore the floristic composition in the homestead
gardens (Islam, 1998; Ahmad, 1997; and Motiur, et al., 2005). The term 'fruit' is
more conveniently used to refer to the part of the seed suitable for human
consumption, eaten fresh, either ripe or young (Uddin and Mukul, 2007).
4.4.2 Different problems in homestead fruit cultivation
According to the fruit growers opinion lack of technical knowledge about
materials is the 1st category problem in fruit cultivation followed by high rate of
interest and adequate loan demand and also inadequacy and high price of inputs.
On the other hand, interference of middle man to get loan, shortage of cold
storage is the more manageable problems regarding to increases of homestead
fruit production in Haor areas (Table 13). Homestead fruit production is quite
prevalence in Bangladesh with some common problem (Alam and Masum, 2005).
Comparison of magnitude of different problems in homestead fruit cultivation in
Haor areas presented in Figure 1.
43
Table 12. Distribution of the fruit growers according to the different aspects of fruit cultivation Characteristics Categories Fruit growers
Number Percentage Reason for fruit cultivation For eating
For marketing Both for eating and marketing Other reason (if any)
27 11 6 1
60.00 24.44 13.33 2.22
Total 45 100 Procedure of fruit variety selection in homestead garden
From the information of agricultural office With own selection Information from neighboring people As the availability of variety in near by
8 23 12 2
17.78 51.11 26.67 4.44
Total 45 100 Procedure of fruit tree plantation and their management
As per standard/appropriate procedure As per own decision and opinion Information from neighboring people As per the information of radio and TV
11 18 12 4
24.44 40.00 26.67 8.89
Total 45 100 Is they follow the management of fruit trees?
No Sometimes Regularly
18 22 5
40.00 48.89 11.11
Total 45 100 Is the fruit tress affected by insects? Yes
No 12 33
26.67 73.33
Total 45 100 Is the fruit tress affected by diseases? Yes
No 16 29
35.56 64.44
Total 45 100 Did you apply pesticides Yes
No 11 34
24.44 75.56
Total 45 100
44
Table 13. Comparison of magnitude of different problems in homestead fruit cultivation in Haor areas
SL. No.
Problem High (3)
Moderate (2)
Little (1)
Not at all (0)
PCI Rank order
1 Inadequacy of inputs 27 13 3 2 110 4
2 High price of inputs 21 18 3 3 102 5
3 Low quality of materials 12 17 11 5 81 8
4 Lack of technical knowledge about materials 32 11 2 0 120 1
5 Shortage of cold storage .for fruit preservation 10 13 12 10 68 11
6 Decrease of weight in fruit preservation 16 8 12 9 75 10
7 Transport problem for marketing 8 21 10 6 76 9
8 Deprive from accurate sale price 17 22 3 3 98 6
9 Lack of loan facilities at optimum time 19 18 3 5 96 7
10 High rate of interest 34 6 5 0 119 2
11 Interfere of middle man to get loan 3 12 11 19 44 12
12 Inadequate loan than demand 27 18 0 0 117 3
Total 226 177 74 63 1106 --
45
0
20
40
60
80
100
120
Scor
e
Problem
Figure 1. Comparison of magnitude of different problems in homestead fruit cultivation in Haor areas
46
4.5 Management practices in homestead fruit trees
4.5.1 Status of different management practices for different fruit trees
In case of different fruits, the fruit growers respond that they applied fertilizer,
irrigation, hormone, mulching, pruning, thinning and training for homestead fruit
production. In consideration of fertilizer application, for orange cultivation the
highest 100% fruit growers applied fertilizers but for coconut cultivation around
75.56% did not use any fertilizers (Table 14). In context of irrigation, the highest
84.44% fruit growers applied irrigation in papaya cultivation, while highest
95.56% fruit growers did not use any irrigation for banana cultivation in their
homestead areas. For hormone application, the highest 55.56% fruit growers
applied hormone for mango cultivation, whereas the highest 100% fruit growers
did not applied hormone for hog plum, banana, lemon, coconut, star fruit, pummel
and wax apple cultivation. In consideration of mulching, the highest 64.44% fruit
growers used mulched materials for banana cultivation, while the highest 95.56%
fruit growers did not used any mulch materials for jujube cultivation. In
consideration of thinning, the highest 40.00% fruit growers practiced thinning in
papaya cultivation, while the highest 100% fruit growers did not practiced any
thinning activities for coconut cultivation. For training, the highest 42.22% fruit
growers practiced training in jujube plant, whereas the highest 100% fruit growers
did not followed any training practices for banana cultivation in their homestead
areas. For pruning in homestead fruit cultivation, the highest 100% fruit growers
practiced pruning in jujube plant but the highest 100% fruit growers did not
practiced and pruning for coconut trees. Data revealed that the different
management practices used by different fruit growers for different fruit growing
in their homestead areas. According to FAO (2010) in Bangladesh, there is no
specific management plan for the homestead fruit trees which are being
traditionally managed by the household owners. Motiur et al. (2006) reported that
The management of the traditional homestead garden has evolved as a response to
many factors such as cultural, economic and, environmental as well as personal
preferences.
47
Table 14. Status of different management practices in homestead fruit trees in Haor areas
Fruit Trees Application status of different management practices (%) as per the responses of fruit growers* Fertilizer Irrigation Hormone Mulching Thinning Training Pruning
Yes No Yes No Yes No Yes No Yes No Yes No Yes No
Mango 84.44 15.56 51.11 48.89 55.56 44.44 35.56 64.44 6.67 93.33 13.33 86.67 75.56 24.44
Hog plum 68.89 31.11 24.44 75.56 0.00 100.00 13.33 86.67 26.67 73.33 4.44 95.56 33.33 66.67
Papaya 97.78 2.22 84.44 15.56 11.11 88.89 40.00 60.00 40.00 60.00 2.22 97.78 11.11 88.89
Banana 95.56 4.44 4.44 95.56 0.00 100.00 64.44 35.56 8.89 91.11 0.00 100.00 26.67 73.33
Orange 100.00 0.00 68.89 31.11 4.44 95.56 26.67 73.33 11.11 88.89 8.89 91.11 55.56 44.44
Lemon 86.67 13.33 15.56 84.44 0.00 100.00 40.00 60.00 24.44 75.56 31.11 68.89 48.89 51.11
Jujube 48.89 51.11 26.67 73.33 8.89 91.11 4.44 95.56 4.44 95.56 42.22 57.78 100.00 0.00
Coconut 24.44 75.56 6.67 93.33 0.00 100.00 33.33 66.67 0.00 100.00 2.22 97.78 0.00 100.00
Guava 82.22 17.78 35.56 64.44 13.33 86.67 26.67 73.33 6.67 93.33 37.78 62.22 24.44 75.56
Star fruit 28.89 71.11 13.33 86.67 0.00 100.00 15.56 84.44 15.56 84.44 11.11 88.89 35.56 64.44
Pummelo 33.33 66.67 17.78 82.22 0.00 100.00 24.44 75.56 11.11 88.89 24.44 75.56 40.00 60.00
Sapota 82.22 17.78 28.89 71.11 2.22 97.78 11.11 88.89 4.44 95.56 6.67 93.33 26.67 73.33
Wax apple 53.33 46.67 20.00 80.00 0.00 100.00 8.89 91.11 8.89 91.11 15.56 84.44 20.00 80.00
*Total fruit growers 45 number in Haor areas
48
4.5.2 Status of fertilizer management in different homestead fruit trees
Poor cropping is considered to be a serious and major problem that faces fruit
growers. From the Table 15 it was found that status of different fertilizer
management practices as per the responses of fruit growers varied markedly. Most
of the fruit growers applied fertilizers once in a time for the homestead fruit
cultivation. According to the fruit growers opinion the highest 91.11% fruit
growers used fertilizer once in a year for orange cultivation but the highest
42.22% fruit growers used fertilizer twice per year for banana cultivation, while
the highest 75.56% fruit growers did not use any fertilizer for coconut cultivation.
The highest 80.00% fruit growers used maximum fertilizer for orange cultivation
but the highest 69.23% fruit growers applied minimum doses of fertilizer for star
fruit cultivation, whereas the highest 33.33% fruit growers applied average
fertilizer for pummelo cultivation. In case of methods of use of fertilizer, the
highest 44.19% fruit growers practiced furrow method for banana cultivation but
the highest 83.78% fruit growers practiced ring method for sapota fruit
cultivation, while the highest 47.73% fruit growers practiced spray method for
papaya cultivation. Poor cropping is considered to be a serious and major problem
that faces by fruit growers in Bangladesh and this problem is attributed mainly to
poor fruit retention and/or extensive dropping of flowers and fruits. Unfavourable
environmental conditions, imbalance use of nutrients, malnutrition, application of
higher amounts of mineral N and undesirable physiological conditions around the
trees are considered important reasons for such problem (Miller et al., 1990).
Nutrients can exist in the soil in various forms, viz. dissolved in the soil solution,
adsorbed on the soil particle surface or as constituents of the solid phase
(sparingly soluble minerals, organic matter, and occluded material). The
availability of a nutrient refers to that fraction of the nutrient which is accessible
to plant roots. It is often observed that the total status of a particular nutrient in
soil is high but the plants grown on this soil suffers from deficiency of that
element (FRG, 2005).
49
Table 15. Status of fertilizer management in different homestead fruit trees in Haor areas
Fruit Trees Status of different fertilizer management practices (%) as per the responses of fruit growers* Yearly times of fertilizer application Amount of fertilizer application Methods of fertilizer application
Once Twice Thrice No Maximum Minimum Average Furrow method
Ring method
Spray method
Mango 60.00 22.22 2.22 15.56 50.00 21.05 28.95 21.05 71.05 7.89
Hog plum 42.22 20.00 6.67 31.11 70.97 6.45 22.58 12.90 67.74 19.35
Papaya 48.89 35.56 13.33 2.22 40.91 27.27 31.82 25.00 27.27 47.73
Banana 28.89 42.22 24.44 4.44 74.42 20.93 4.65 44.19 25.58 30.23
Orange 91.11 8.89 0.00 0.00 80.00 11.11 8.89 20.00 68.89 11.11
Lemon 51.11 26.67 8.89 13.33 30.77 58.97 10.26 7.69 71.79 20.51
Jujube 35.56 11.11 2.22 51.11 36.36 54.55 9.09 13.64 77.27 9.09
Coconut 17.78 4.44 2.22 75.56 27.27 63.64 9.09 36.36 63.64 0.00
Guava 68.89 8.89 4.44 17.78 70.27 5.41 24.32 18.92 64.86 16.22
Star fruit 24.44 4.44 0.00 71.11 15.38 69.23 15.38 23.08 53.85 23.08
Pummelo 26.67 4.44 2.22 66.67 20.00 46.67 33.33 26.67 60.00 13.33
Sapota 64.44 11.11 6.67 17.78 62.16 13.51 24.32 13.51 83.78 2.70
Wax apple 28.89 20.00 4.44 46.67 12.50 62.50 25.00 25.00 70.83 4.17
*Total fruit growers 45 number in Haor areas
50
4.5.3 Status of water management in different homestead fruit trees
Irrigation is a vital management practice in fruit production regions of the world,
particularly in arid and semi-arid climates. Better understanding and utilization of
tree physiological parameters is needed for management of irrigation water of
fruit crops and this will ultimately lead to achieving optimum yield and fruit
quality while conserving water resources. Data reveled that different fruit trees
showed different status of water management practices as per the responses of the
fruit growers (Table 16). In consideration of the times of application of water in
homestead fruit trees the highest 26.67% and 42.22% fruit growers applied
irrigation for one time and two times in papaya, respectively while the highest
95.56% fruit growers applied no irrigation for banana cultivation. The highest
66.67% fruit growers applied water before blooming in star fruit and the highest
90.91% fruit growers applied water after blooming for hog plum, whereas the
highest 25.00% fruit growers applied water in dry season for pummelo
cultivation. For method of water application, the highest 50.00% fruit growers
applied water in flood method for banana cultivation but the highest 100% fruit
growers applied water in ring method for coconut cultivation, while the highest
18.75% fruit growers applied water in cane watering for guava cultivation. These
physiological variables, growth, and fruit production should be correlated with
soil water content prior to determining the appropriate amount of water to apply to
an orchard. Little is known about the response of temperate fruit crop, such as
apple, and tropical fruit crop, such as star-fruit, to changes in soil water content
under field conditions in humid-temperate and subtropical climates. Al-Yahyai
(2012) reported that for better understanding and utilization of tree physiological
parameters is needed for management of irrigation water in fruit crops and this
will ultimately lead to achieving optimum yield and fruit quality while conserving
water resources. Fereres (1997) reported that irrigation scheduling is especially
important in horticultural crops because net returns are normally higher than those
of other crops although the fruit growers of Haor homestead did not practices it’s
accordingly.
51
Table 16. Status of water management in different homestead fruit trees in Haor areas Fruit Trees Status of water management practices (%) as per the responses of fruit growers*
Yearly times of water application Time of water application Methods of water application Once Twice Thrice No Before
blooming After
blooming In dry season
Flood method
Ring method
Cane watering
Mango 11.11 31.11 8.89 48.89 30.43 69.57 0.00 39.13 56.52 4.35
Hog plum 15.56 6.67 2.22 75.56 9.09 90.91 0.00 18.18 81.82 0.00
Papaya 26.67 42.22 15.56 15.56 18.42 73.68 7.89 31.58 65.79 2.63
Banana 2.22 2.22 0.00 95.56 50.00 50.00 0.00 50.00 50.00 0.00
Orange 22.22 26.67 20.00 31.11 25.81 70.97 3.23 9.68 83.87 6.45
Lemon 8.89 4.44 2.22 84.44 28.57 57.14 14.29 28.57 71.43 0.00
Jujube 20.00 4.44 2.22 73.33 16.67 75.00 8.33 16.67 66.67 16.67
Coconut 6.67 0.00 0.00 93.33 33.33 66.67 0.00 0.00 100.00 0.00
Guava 4.44 26.67 4.44 64.44 12.50 75.00 12.50 12.50 68.75 18.75
Star fruit 4.44 6.67 2.22 86.67 66.67 16.67 16.67 16.67 66.67 16.67
Pummelo 8.89 6.67 2.22 82.22 25.00 50.00 25.00 12.50 87.50 0.00
Sapota 8.89 13.33 6.67 71.11 23.08 69.23 7.69 15.38 84.62 0.00
Wax apple 15.56 2.22 2.22 80.00 22.22 55.56 22.22 11.11 77.78 11.11
*Total fruit growers 45 number in Haor areas
52
4.5.4 Status of hormone management in different homestead fruit trees
Hormone or plant growth regulators (PGR's) are organic compounds, which in
small amounts, somehow modify a given physiological plant process. It plays an
essential role in many aspects of plant growth and development, stem elongation
and flower development. In respect of hormone application data revealed that
most of the fruit growers did not applied any hormone for homestead fruit
cultivation (Table 17). In case of time of application the highest 50.00% fruit
growers applied hormone before blooming in orange cultivation but the highest
100% fruit growers applied hormone after blooming in sapota cultivation, while
the highest 32.00% fruit growers applied in another time in mango cultivation. In
case of amount of hormone the highest 100% fruit growers applied maximum
amount in sapota cultivation while the highest 75.00% fruit growers’ applied in
minimum amount for jujube cultivation. Among the fruit growers the highest
100% received success of hormone in papaya cultivation but the highest 50.00%
fruit growers did not received any success for orange cultivation. The responses to
a particular growth regulator depend upon factors such as the plant, the chemical,
and the environment. Fruit per plant, fruit size and weight per fruits are the yield
components which may vary on the application of different PGR’s. Generally fruit
per plant, fruit size and weight per fruits was the yield components although it
was minimum practiced by the fruit growers of Haor homestead. Ouzounidou et
al. (2008) reported that hormone plays an essential role in many aspects of plant
growth and development, stem elongation and flower development. Leclerc et al.
(2006) reported that plant growth regulators can be used to modify growth and
development in various ways. Some growth regulators affect primarily on
vegetative growth; others influence the fruit; still others may induce modifications
in vegetative and fruiting parts and it is in small amounts, somehow modify a
given physiological plant process and responses depends to a particular growth
regulator depend upon factors such as the plant, the chemical, and the
environment.
53
Table 17. Status of hormone management in different homestead fruit trees in Haor areas Fruit Trees Status of hormone management practices (%) as per the responses of fruit growers*
Times of hormone application/year Time of hormone application Amount of application Success of hormone application
Once Twice Thrice No Before blooming
After blooming
In another time
Maximum Minimum Yes No
Mango 51.11 2.22 2.22 44.44 20.00 48.00 32.00 72.00 28.00 96.00 4.00
Hog plum 0.00 0.00 0.00 100.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
Papaya 6.67 2.22 2.22 88.89 40.00 40.00 20.00 60.00 40.00 100.00 0.00
Banana 0.00 0.00 0.00 100.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
Orange 2.22 2.22 0.00 95.56 50.00 50.00 0.00 50.00 50.00 50.00 50.00
Lemon 0.00 0.00 0.00 100.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
Jujube 6.67 2.22 0.00 91.11 25.00 75.00 0.00 25.00 75.00 75.00 25.00
Coconut 0.00 0.00 0.00 100.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
Guava 11.11 2.22 0.00 86.67 33.33 66.67 0.00 33.33 66.67 83.33 16.67
Star fruit 0.00 0.00 0.00 100.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
Pummelo 0.00 0.00 0.00 100.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
Sapota 2.22 0.00 0.00 97.78 0.00 100.00 0.00 100.00 0.00 100.00 0.00
Wax apple 0.00 0.00 0.00 100.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
*Total fruit growers 45 number in Haor areas
54
4.5.5 Status of mulch management in different homestead fruit trees
Mulches prevent weeds from germinating, reduce evaporative loss from soil
surfaces, add organic matter to soils thereby increasing their mineral content and
increase soil-borne disease suppression. In case of mulch, the highest (53.33%)
fruit growers used mulched materials in one time for banana cultivation. The
highest (6.67%) fruit growers used mulch materials for two time in mango,
papaya and banana cultivation, while the highest three times were used in banana,
lemon and pummel cultivation. On the other hand the highest (95.56%) fruit
growers did not used any mulch materials for jujube cultivation (Table 18). For
the consideration of time of mulch materials application, the highest (93.33%)
used mulch materials in dry season for coconut cultivation but the highest
(71.43%) fruit growers used during blooming for star fruit cultivation, while the
highest (50.00%) fruit growers used mulch material during fruiting for jujube and
wax apple cultivation. In case of mulch materials, the highest (90.91%) fruit
growers used rice straw mulch for pummelo cultivation but the highest (25.00%)
fruit growers used plastic materials for orange cultivation, whereas the highest
(50.00%) fruit growers used other mulch materials for jujube cultivation. The
benefit most desired from mulch applications is for more growth or better growth
of trees. Downer (1998) reported that mulching with organic materials derived
from trees increases the mineral content of underlying soils, and many positively
charged nutrients contained in plants (including toxic ions) tend to accumulate in
fine textured soils under organic mulches. Generally, mulch effects on growth
depend on the age of the tree, whether newly planted or an established specimen,
tree species and site factors such as water applications, soil types and their mineral
nutrient content as well as the presence or absence of pathogenic fungi in soil. The
benefit most desired from mulch applications is for more growth or better growth
of trees and the increased growth of trees has been associated with organic
mulches in several studies (Downer and Faber, 2005; Greenly and Rakow, 1995;
Foshee et al., 1996).
55
Table 18. Status of mulching management in different homestead fruit trees in Haor areas Fruit Trees Status of mulching management practices (%) as per the responses of fruit growers*
Times of mulching application/year Time of mulching application Materials for mulching Once Twice Thrice No In dry
season During
blooming During fruiting
Rice straw
Plastic paper
Others
Mango 26.67 6.67 2.22 64.44 6.25 56.25 37.50 75.00 6.25 18.75
Hog plum 11.11 2.22 0.00 86.67 16.67 66.67 16.67 66.67 0.00 33.33
Papaya 31.11 6.67 2.22 60.00 27.78 61.11 11.11 50.00 11.11 38.89
Banana 53.33 6.67 4.44 35.56 20.69 62.07 17.24 72.41 10.34 17.24
Orange 24.44 2.22 0.00 73.33 16.67 66.67 16.67 58.33 25.00 16.67
Lemon 31.11 4.44 4.44 60.00 5.56 66.67 27.78 83.33 5.56 11.11
Jujube 4.44 0.00 0.00 95.56 0.00 50.00 50.00 50.00 0.00 50.00
Coconut 31.11 2.22 0.00 66.67 93.33 6.67 0.00 86.67 0.00 13.33
Guava 20.00 4.44 2.22 73.33 41.67 33.33 25.00 75.00 0.00 25.00
Star fruit 13.33 2.22 0.00 84.44 14.29 71.43 14.29 71.43 0.00 28.57
Pummelo 17.78 2.22 4.44 75.56 54.55 27.27 18.18 90.91 0.00 9.09
Sapota 6.67 2.22 2.22 88.89 60.00 20.00 20.00 80.00 0.00 20.00
Wax apple 4.44 4.44 0.00 91.11 0.00 50.00 50.00 75.00 0.00 25.00
*Total fruit growers 45 number in Haor areas
56
4.5.6 Status of training and pruning in different homestead fruit trees
Training is a practice that allows tree growth to be directed into a desired shape
and form. Training in young fruit trees is essential for proper tree development. In
case of training, most of the fruit growers did not practices any training for
homestead fruit cultivation but the highest 28.89% fruit growers practiced training
once in a year for jujube cultivation. For time of training, the highest 100% fruit
growers’ practices training yearly for papaya cultivation but the highest 100.00%
fruit growers practiced training within 2 years for coconut plant, while the highest
66.67% fruit growers practiced training within 5 years for mango cultivation in
homestead areas (Table 19). Basically, the goal of tree training is to direct tree
growth and to minimize pruning and removing a portion of the tree, although
dormant pruning is always going to be needed. Training young fruit trees is
essential for proper tree development. It is more efficient to direct tree growth
with training than to correct it with pruning. Olsen (2011) reported that untrained
fruit trees can become infestation sites for serious insect and disease pests and
untrained trees can make it difficult for commercial growers in the region to
control key pests.
In considering of pruning, the highest 97.78% fruit growers’ practices one time
pruning for jujube cultivation but the highest 20.00% twice time pruning for
mango cultivation and most of the fruit growers did not practiced any pruning for
homestead fruit cultivation. In case of time of pruning 100% fruit growers
practiced pruning before flowering in banana, while the highest 93.33% fruit
growers practiced fruiting after fruit harvest for hog plum (Table 19). Pruning is
most often accomplished during the winter, commonly referred to as dormant
pruning. Michael, 2004 reported that minimize pruning and removing a portion of
the tree, although dormant pruning is always going to be needed. The best ways
for homeowners to control the height of a fruit tree are to plant a dwarfing
rootstock, prune well, or use a trellis system.
57
Table 19. Status of training and pruning management in different homestead fruit trees in Haor areas Fruit Trees Status of pruning and training management practices (%) as per the responses of fruit growers*
Yearly times of training Yearly times of pruning Time of training Time of pruning
Once Twice Thrice No Once Twice Thrice No Yearly Within 2 years
Within 5 years
Before flowering
After fruit harvest
Mango 8.89 2.22 2.22 86.67 53.33 20.00 2.22 24.44 16.67 16.67 66.67 23.53 67.65
Hog plum 2.22 2.22 0.00 95.56 31.11 2.22 0.00 66.67 0.00 50.00 50.00 6.67 93.33
Papaya 2.22 0.00 0.00 97.78 8.89 2.22 0.00 88.89 100.00 0.00 0.00 40.00 60.00
Banana 0.00 0.00 0.00 100.00 22.22 2.22 2.22 73.33 0.00 0.00 0.00 100.00 0.00
Orange 6.67 2.22 0.00 91.11 46.67 6.67 2.22 44.44 25.00 50.00 25.00 84.00 16.00
Lemon 24.44 4.44 2.22 68.89 40.00 4.44 4.44 51.11 64.29 21.43 14.29 18.18 81.82
Jujube 28.89 6.67 6.67 57.78 97.78 2.22 0.00 0.00 84.21 10.53 5.26 4.44 95.56
Coconut 2.22 0.00 0.00 97.78 0.00 0.00 0.00 100.00 0.00 100.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
Guava 20.00 6.67 11.11 62.22 17.78 4.44 2.22 75.56 82.35 11.76 5.88 9.09 90.91
Star fruit 6.67 2.22 2.22 88.89 26.67 4.44 4.44 64.44 40.00 40.00 20.00 31.25 68.75
Pummelo 15.56 6.67 2.22 75.56 33.33 4.44 2.22 60.00 54.55 36.36 9.09 11.11 88.89
Sapota 2.22 2.22 2.22 93.33 17.78 4.44 4.44 73.33 66.67 33.33 0.00 75.00 25.00
Wax apple 8.89 2.22 4.44 84.44 13.33 4.44 2.22 80.00 57.14 28.57 14.29 55.56 44.44
*Total fruit growers 45 number in Haor areas
58
CHAPTER V
SUMMARY AND CONCLUSIONS
The study was conducted in Ajmiriganj upazila under Habigonj district and it was a
Haor area. There are five unions in Ajmiriganj upazila, viz. Ajmiriganj, Kakailseo,
Jalsuka, Badalpur, and Shibpasha. Through a survey under the project BAS-USDA-
PALS an update list of 45 family were made who have the fruit trees of Mango, Hog
plum, Papaya, Banana, Orange, Lemon, Jujube, Coconut, Guava, Star fruit, Pummelo,
Sapota and Wax apple in their homestead areas. Thus, 45 homestead fruit growers
constituted the sample of the study. The 45 homesteads were surveyed to understand
their knowledge regarding homestead fruit cultivation and also identify the present
fruit production system of them. A well structured interview schedule was developed
based on objectives of the study. The independent variables were: age, level of
education, family size, annual income, age of homestead, size of homestead and size
of homestead fruit trees area. The dependent variable of this study was the knowledge
on management of homestead fruit production and practices. After completion of field
survey all the interview schedule were compiled, tabulated and analyzed according to
the objectives of the study. Various statistical measures such as frequency counts,
percentage distribution, average, and standard deviation were used in describing data.
SPSS (version 11.5) computer program were used for analyzing the data.
5.1 Summary of findings
5.1.1 Characteristics of the fruit growers
The middle aged homestead fruit growers in Haor areas comprise the major proportion
(48.89%) followed by old aged category (44.44%) and the young aged constitute the
lowest (6.67%) proportion.
‘Illiterate’ category constitute the highest proportion (53.34%) compared to 31.11%
‘secondary level category and 11.11% above secondary level category. On the other
hand, the lowest (4.44%) constitute primary level category.
59
The highest proportion (57.78%) followed by the medium family (37.78%). Only
4.44% fruit growers had large family size.
The homestead fruit growers in Haor areas having medium income constitute the
highest proportion (62.22%) followed by high annual income (28.89%) and the low
income group constitute the lowest annual income group (8.89%).
Age of homestead of fruit growers under high aged category constitutes the highest
proportion (42.22%) compared to 35.56% of medium aged homestead and the lowest
percentage 22.22% low aged homestead.
The medium size of homestead constitutes the highest proportion 44.44% followed by
28.89% with large size homestead and the lowest 26.67% in small size homestead.
The small size of homestead fruit trees areas constitutes the highest proportion
(53.33%) followed medium sized homestead fruit trees areas (31.11%) and the lowest
15.56% in large size homestead fruit trees areas.
5.1.2 Knowledge on management practice of homestead fruit cultivation
The majority (42.22%) of the respondents felt in low knowledge category followed by
medium knowledge category (37.78%) in homestead fruit production activities and
only 20.00% in high knowledge category.
5.1.3 Results of hypothesis testing
Age, level of education, family size, annual income, age of homestead, size of
homestead and size of homestead fruit trees area and knowledge on management of
homestead fruit production and practices in Haor areas was determined by Pearson
product moment correlation coefficient. Level of education, annual income and size of
homestead fruit trees area showed significant positive relationship with knowledge on
management of homestead fruit production and practices in Haor areas. On the other
hand, age showed significant negative relationship with knowledge of homestead fruit
management of the growers in Haor areas. Family size and size of homestead showed
non significant positive relationship with knowledge on management of homestead
fruit production and practices of the fruit growers in Haor areas.
60
5.1.4 Status of different management practices for different fruit trees
In case of different fruits, the respondents respond that they applied fertilizer,
irrigation, hormone, mulching, thinning, training and pruning for homestead fruit
production. In consideration of fertilizer application, for orange cultivation the highest
100% fruit growers applied fertilizers but for coconut cultivation around 75.56% did
not use any fertilizers. In context of irrigation, the highest 84.44% fruit growers
applied irrigation in papaya cultivation, while highest 95.56% fruit growers did not
use any irrigation for banana cultivation in their homestead areas. For hormone
application, the highest 55.56% respondents applied hormone for mango cultivation,
whereas the highest 100% respondents did not applied hormone for hog plum, banana,
lemon, coconut, star fruit, pummel and wax apple cultivation. In consideration of
mulching, the highest 64.44% respondents used mulched materials for banana
cultivation, while the highest 95.56% respondents did not used any mulch materials
for jujube cultivation. For pruning in homestead fruit cultivation, the highest 100%
respondents practiced pruning in jujube plant but the highest 100% respondents did
not practiced and pruning for coconut trees. In consideration of thinning, the highest
40.00% respondents practiced thinning in papaya cultivation, while the highest 100%
respondents did not practiced any thinning activities for coconut cultivation. For
training, the highest 42.22% respondents fruit growers practiced training in jujube
plant.
61
Conclusion:
Based on the findings of the study the following conclusions have drawn:
1. The majority (80.00%) fruit growers in Haor areas were in low to medium
knowledge category. So, it is necessary to initiate different initiatives for
increasing the knowledge of fruit growers in Haor areas regarding fruit
production and practices.
2. Considering the magnitude of different problems in homestead fruit cultivation
in Haor areas, the fruit growers faced the highest problem in terms of lack of
technical knowledge about materials and the second highest is high rate of
interest and the third is inadequate loan than demand.
3. Level of education showed positive relationship with knowledge on
management of homesteads fruit cultivation and practices. Technical training
may upgrade their knowledge level.
4. Annual income demonstrated positive relationship with knowledge on
management of homesteads fruit cultivation and practices.
5. Size of homestead fruit trees showed positive relationship with knowledge on
management of homesteads fruit cultivation practices.
6. Age showed positive relationship with knowledge of homesteads fruit
management of the growers in Haor areas. For better management, young and
middle aged people may involve in homestead fruit production and practices in
Haor areas.
62
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APPENDICES
Appendix I. A map of study area of Ajmiriganj upazila
76
Appendix II. A copy of interview schedule
DEPARTMENT OF HORTICULTURE SHER-E-BANGLA AGRICULTURAL UNIVERSITY
DHAKA 1207
An interview schedule for a research study entitle
“EVALUATION OF FRUIT TREE MANAGEMENT PRACTICES IN HAOR HOMESTEADS OF BANGLADESH”
Serial No..................
Respondent Name :
Village : Union : Upazila:
[Please provide following information. Your information will be kept confidential and will be used for research purpose only]
1. Age PART-I
What is your present age? .......................... Years
2. Level of education What is the level of your education?
a) Illiterate ( ) b. Can sign only ( ) c. Have passed class….....................
d. Did not read in School/Madrasha but can read and write and level of education is equivalent to class........................................
3. Family size State the number of your family members…....................................................................
4. Annual income Please mention the amount of annual income from the following sources
a) Income from Agricultural Crop SL. No. Crop Name Production (Maund) Price/Maund (Tk) Total Income (Tk.)
1 Rice 2 Wheat 3 Maize 4 Potato 5 Jute 6 Pulse crop 7 Oil crop 8 Spice crop 9 Vegetable 10 Fruits
Total
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b) Income from domestic animals and fish resources SL. No. Income resources Total Income(Tk.)/year
1 Domestic animal 2 Poultry 3 Fish resources 4 Others (if any, please specify)
Total
c) Income from another sources SL. No. Income resources Total Income (Tk.)/year
1 Services 2 Business 3 Day labour 4 Fishing 5 Other family members’ income 6 Others (if any, please specify)
Total
5. Age of homestead What is your present age of your homestead area?.................................... Years
6. Size of homestead Please mention the area of your homestead according to use
Sl. No. Type of land use Area of land Acre Hectare
A Residential areas/House areas B Homestead premises C Pond area D Cow/livestock shade E Areas of homesteads garden F Trees plantation areas/forest G Others (if any, please specify)
Total farm size = A + B + C + D + E + F + G
7. Size of homestead fruit trees areas State the size of your homestead fruit trees areas...............................Acre/hectares
78
8. Knowledge on homestead fruit production and practices Please answer the following questions Sl. No.
Questions Assigned score
Obtained marks
1 Mention about homestead fruit cultivation 2 2 Mention the site in homestead area that suitable for homestead
fruit cultivation 2
3 Name two year round fruit producing plant 2 4 What is vegetative propagation? 2 5 Mention the elements that presents in soil 2 6 Do you know how to prepare a seedbed for fruit trees? 2 7 Mention the time of management of fruit trees in homestead area 2 8 Mention the name of different fruit tree management practices 2 9 What type of soil is suitable for homestead fruit production 2 10 What is organic manure? 2 11 Mention the time of the application of organic manure 2 12 What is balanced fertilizer? 2 13 What do you know about composting? 2 14 Do you know when fertilizers are to be applied fruit trees? 2 15 Do you know the different doses of fertilizer for fruit trees? 2 16 Do you know the methods of fertilizers application? 2 17 Mention the importance of irrigation in fruit tress 2 18 Mention the yearly times of irrigation application in fruit plants 2 19 What precautions are needed at the time of fertilizer application in
homestead fruit production? 2
20 Mention the methods of irrigation application in fruit trees 2 21 Mention the yearly times of irrigation application in fruit plants 2 22 Importance of irrigation in fruit trees 2 23 What precautions are needed at the time of irrigation application
in homestead fruit production? 2
24 What is hormone? 2 25 Mention the importance of hormone application in fruit tress 2 26 Mention name of some commonly used hormones 2 27 Mention the amount of hormone for fruit trees 2 28 What precautions are needed at the time of hormone application in
homestead fruit production? 2
29 What is mulching? 2 30 What are the reasons for the application of mulch? 2 31 Mention the time of mulch application 2 32 Mention some commonly used mulch materials 2 33 What is pruning and training? 2 34 Mention the importance of pruning and training 2 35 Mention the times of pruning and training 2
Total 70
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PART-II 1. Different aspects of homestead fruit cultivation in Haor areas
Please answer () the following questions
Characteristics Categories
Reason for fruit cultivation For eating
For marketing
Both for eating and marketing
Other reason (if any)
Procedure of fruit variety selection in homestead garden
From the information of agricultural office
With own selection
Information from neighboring people
As the availability of variety in near by
Procedure of fruit tree plantation and their management
As per standard/appropriate procedure
As per own decision and opinion
Information from neighboring people
As per the information of radio and TV
Is they follow the management of fruit trees?
No
Sometimes
Regularly
Is the fruit tress affected by insects? Yes
No
Is the fruit tress affected by diseases? Yes
No
Did you apply pesticides Yes
No
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2. Mention the severity of different problems in homestead fruit cultivation
SL. No.
Problem High (3)
Moderate (2)
Little (1)
Not at all (0)
1 Inadequacy of inputs 2 High price of inputs 3 Low quality of materials 4 Lack of technical knowledge
about materials
5 Shortage of cold storage .for fruit preservation
6 Decrease of weight in fruit preservation
7 Transport problem for marketing
8 Deprive from accurate sale price
9 Lack of loan facilities at optimum time
10 High rate of interest 11 Interfere of middle man to get
loan
12 Inadequate loan than demand 3. Mention the different management practices in homestead fruit trees
Fruit Trees Different management practices Fertilizer Irrigation Hormone Mulching Thinning Training Pruning Yes No Yes No Yes No Yes No Yes No Yes No Yes No
Mango Hog plum Papaya Banana Orange Lemon Jujube Coconut Guava Star fruit Pummelo Sapota Wax apple
81
4. Mention the fertilizer management for different homestead fruit trees
Fruit Trees Fertilizer management practices Times of fertilizer
application/year
Amount of fertilizer application/per plant
Methods of fertilizer application
Maximum Minimum Average Furrow method
Ring method
Spray method
Mango Hog plum Papaya Banana Orange Lemon Jujube Coconut Guava Star fruit Pummelo Sapota Wax apple 5. Mention the water management for different homestead fruit trees
Fruit Trees Water management practices Times of water
application /year
Time of water application Methods of fertilizer application
Before blooming
After blooming
In dry season
Flood method
Ring method
Sprinkler method
Mango Hog plum Papaya Banana Orange Lemon Jujube Coconut Guava Star fruit Pummelo Sapota Wax apple
82
6. Mention the hormone management for homestead fruit trees
Fruit Trees Hormone management practices Times of hormone application /year
Time of hormone
application
Amount of application
Success of hormone
application Mango Hog plum Papaya Banana Orange Lemon Jujube Coconut Guava Star fruit Pummelo Sapota Wax apple 7. Mention the mulching management for homestead fruit trees Fruit Trees Mulching management practices
Times of mulching
application/year
Time of mulching application Materials for mulching In dry season
During blooming
During fruiting
Rice straw
Plastic paper
Others
Mango Hog plum Papaya Banana Orange Lemon Jujube Coconut Guava Star fruit Pummelo Sapota Wax apple
83
8. Mention the pruning and training management for homestead fruit trees
Fruit Trees Yearly times of training
Yearly times of pruning
Time of training Time of pruning Yearly Within
2 years Within 5 years
Before flowering
After fruit
harvest Mango Hog plum Papaya Banana Orange Lemon Jujube Coconut Guava Star fruit Pummelo Sapota Wax apple Thanks for your co-operation. Signature of the interviewer with Date